The highly anticipated Kangaroo Point Bridge has reached a significant milestone. The final piece of concrete decking has been laid, bringing the project to 90% completion.
Monumental Project, Local Impact
This considerable achievement paves the way for pedestrians to traverse Brisbane’s newest bridge soon, soaring 13 metres above the Brisbane River. The project has already substantially impacted the local community, with over 646,000 hours of labour invested, generating 1,400 jobs and providing valuable training for over 50 apprentices.
Key structural elements of the bridge are now complete, following the installation of the final connecting span and viewing platform in early June and the subsequent pouring of the concrete deck. Removing temporary structures, including the world’s strongest tower crane used to erect the bridge’s 95-metre mast and cable stay system, marks a significant step towards finalisation.
Final Touches and Enhanced Access in Kangaroo Point Bridge
Work will now focus on preparing the bridge entrances in Kangaroo Point and the CBD. Over 500 metres of balustrading, furniture, seating, and solar panels will be installed along the covered walkway. New signalised pedestrian crossings have been completed at the CBD landing, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists accessing the bridge.
In addition, a new Story Bridge underpass has recently opened, connecting the Kangaroo Point Bridge to Brisbane’s eastern suburbs.
City Deal Success and Future Benefits of the Bridge
The completion of the Kangaroo Point Bridge follows the successful opening of the Breakfast Creek/Yowoggera Bridge in February this year. The bridge accommodates over 700 daily bike trips and 2,400 pedestrian and e-mobility journeys.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge is expected to significantly enhance travel times, reducing commutes between Brisbane’s eastern suburbs and the CBD by up to 15 minutes for vehicles and up to 30 minutes for pedestrians travelling from Kangaroo Point and the Gabba.
This $299 million project, a joint venture between the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council, is one of the first to be delivered under the landmark South East Queensland City Deal.
Ministerial and Council Endorsement
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King highlighted the Australian Government’s commitment to collaborating with state and local governments to deliver impactful projects that benefit the communities of South East Queensland.
Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm emphasised the long-awaited nature of the connection between Kangaroo Point and the CBD, acknowledging the positive impact on local employment and the importance of partnerships between all levels of government in delivering essential infrastructure.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner hailed the Kangaroo Point Bridge as a future landmark and a crucial element in keeping Brisbane moving, reducing traffic congestion, and providing alternative transportation options.
Brisbane City Chair for Transport Ryan Murphy celebrated the project’s historical significance, fulfilling a long-held aspiration for a bridge linking Kangaroo Point to the CBD. He emphasised the bridge’s contribution to active transport infrastructure, reducing congestion and promoting sustainable transportation options.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge is expected to open to the public in late 2024.
Published Date 29-July-2024
