The newly opened Kangaroo Point Bridge has quickly become a standout feature of Brisbane’s landscape, exceeding expectations with its incredible popularity.
Read: Kangaroo Point Bridge Opening to Boost Brisbane Connectivity
In its first month alone, more than 315,000 people crossed the bridge, well above the anticipated usage of 6,100 daily crossings originally forecast for 2036. This unexpected success highlights Brisbane’s growing embrace of active and sustainable modes of transport.
Designed to connect the CBD with Kangaroo Point, the 460-metre bridge provides a seamless link for walkers, cyclists, and scooter riders. With an average of 10,800 crossings daily, the bridge has already proven to be a game-changer for commuters and leisure seekers alike.
On opening day, over 21,500 people used the bridge, including nearly 20,000 pedestrians, demonstrating the city’s enthusiasm for this new infrastructure.
Reducing Congestion and Cutting Commute Times
The Kangaroo Point Bridge is doing more than just connecting neighbourhoods—it’s actively helping to reduce road congestion. By offering a convenient alternative to driving, the bridge is estimated to remove over 84,000 car trips from the road each year.
Additionally, it shortens commutes between the CBD, Kangaroo Point, and the eastern suburbs by up to 15 minutes, while walking times between key areas like the Gabba and the city have been slashed by up to 30 minutes.
A Lifestyle Destination
Beyond its functional benefits, the Kangaroo Point Bridge is quickly becoming a lifestyle hotspot. Two new dining venues, Stilts and Mulga Bills, are set to open soon, offering breathtaking views of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge, and City Botanic Gardens.
These above-water venues will provide indoor and outdoor seating, making the bridge not just a thoroughfare but a destination for locals and visitors.
A Broader Vision for Brisbane’s Future
The success of the Kangaroo Point Bridge comes alongside the positive reception of other recent infrastructure projects, like the Breakfast Creek Bridge, which has also exceeded initial usage forecasts. These projects reflect Brisbane’s commitment to creating a more connected and accessible city, where people can move efficiently and sustainably.
The Numbers Behind the Success
The bridge’s impressive statistics underscore its popularity:
- Total trips since opening: 315,390
- Average trips per day: 10,876
- Pedestrian trips: 260,031 (average 8,967 per day)
- Cyclist trips: 36,166 (average 1,247 per day)
- Scooter trips: 19,193 (average 662 per day)
On high-traffic days, such as New Year’s Day and Sunday, January 5th, daily crossings exceeded 14,000, reinforcing the bridge’s role as a vital and vibrant part of Brisbane’s transport network.
Looking Ahead
The Kangaroo Point Bridge is just one example of how Brisbane is evolving to meet the needs of its growing population.
Read: Calls for the Restoration of Story Bridge Faces as Centenary Approaches
By prioritising sustainable transport options and enhancing accessibility, the city is paving the way for a future where everyone can get around safely, efficiently, and enjoyably. As new projects continue to take shape, Brisbane is solidifying its position as a forward-thinking, connected city.
Published 21-January-2025
