In a bid to reduce future maintenance costs and maintain its structural integrity, steel elements and concrete on the bridge will be repaired or replaced while three new coats of paint will be added.

"This single-span steel truss bridge was built in 1933 by the then NSW Department of Main Roads to replace a wooden bridge and formed part of the original route of the Pacific Highway," Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said.

"The Dawson River Bridge is a vital link for the local community, so it's important we able to keep it well maintained.

"The proposal involves several closures of the bridge to carry out work, which includes repairing or replacing existing steel elements and concrete repairs."

Mr Bromhead said the painting element of the project will involve encapsulating each span on the bridge to remove and dispose of existing paint before applying new coats of paint, similar to the work being undertaken on the Martin Bridge.

Transport for NSW and its contractors will carry out the proposed work in stages with early preparation work expected in March and early April.

Residents can send their feedback on the proposed work by Sunday February 28 to project manager Michael Rheinberger at michael.rheinberger@transport.nsw.gov.au or Michael Rheinberger, Transport for NSW, Locked Bag 2030 Newcastle NSW 2300.

Further information about the proposal, including a design layout, is available to view at nswroads.work/dawsonriverbridge. All feedback will be considered while the community will be kept informed as the project progresses.

Work is set to be completed by mid-2022.