The Story Bridge is facing a projected $3.6 billion renewal cost over the next two decades, as Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and works towards securing funding for the ageing landmark.
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$135 Million Committed Ahead Of 2032
Brisbane has committed $135 million towards the Story Bridge Renewal Project ahead of the Games, with major waterproofing and resurfacing works planned this summer as part of the citywide Operation Smooth program.
The Story Bridge is scheduled to close to road traffic from 27 December 2026 to 18 January 2027, allowing crews to undertake the works. Pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders will continue to have access via the eastern footpath during the closure.
The immediate program forms part of a much larger renewal challenge. Current business case work indicates the full Story Bridge renewal could cost about $3.6 billion over 20 years, with $1.35 billion required before 2032.
The bridge carries about 100,000 vehicles each day, as well as thousands of pedestrians and cyclists, with 43 per cent of users coming from outside Brisbane.
Built in 1940, the Story Bridge is one of Brisbane and Queensland’s most recognised landmarks. Brisbane City Council’s renewal planning is aimed at keeping the structure safe and functional beyond its 100th anniversary in 2040.
Concerns Over Closure And Funding
The $135 million commitment represents part of the broader renewal program, while the business case points to substantially more work across the following two decades. The funding issue comes as Brisbane prepares for the summer closure, which has attracted criticism over its timing and potential impact on freight operators and motorists.
Brisbane City opposition leader Jared Cassidy has raised concerns about disruption to freight and logistics operators during the Christmas period. He has argued that closing the bridge could force some drivers onto toll roads and add pressure to other routes. Cr Cassidy noted that freight and logistics operators rely on the Story Bridge, with the closure scheduled during the Christmas and New Year period.
Major renewal work is needed, while the closure will disrupt motorists and freight operators using the crossing. Brisbane said traffic diversions will be in place during the closure, with motorists advised to plan their journeys in advance.
The $3.6 billion estimate is not the cost of the upcoming summer closure. It represents the expected cost of a staged renewal program extending over 20 years.
BCC has said a full renewal needs funding from all levels and is seeking contributions from Queensland and the federal level alongside its own commitment. The proposed funding split is 80 per cent from the federal level, 10 per cent from Queensland and 10 per cent from Brisbane.
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Immediate maintenance works will sit alongside the longer-term renewal program being developed for the Story Bridge. The plan is intended to preserve the crossing’s role in Brisbane’s transport network beyond the 2032 Games and towards its 2040 centenary.
Published 6-October-2026
