Kangaroo Point Bridge Project Half Done, But Costs Double Original Budget

Brisbane’s ambitious Kangaroo Point bridge has crossed a major construction milestone but is now saddled with a towering budget far exceeding original estimates.


Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Reaches Important Milestone


Over 240 metres of the pedestrian and cyclist bridge’s 460-metre span stretching across the Brisbane River has been installed. 



However, costs for the bridge have shot up over $100 million from the initial $190 million price tag to a staggering $299 million according to revised council figures.

Kangaroo Point Bridge
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Brisbane City Council transport chair Ryan Murphy attributed the ballooning budget to a ‘perfect storm’ of supply chain struggles, labour shortages and runaway materials costs buffeting major infrastructure projects worldwide. 

Despite the escalating price, Cr Murphy reaffirmed the council’s commitment to pushing through and completing the project he called the city’s most important active transit initiative.

The setbacks follow the fanfare last year when the first spans were lifted into place. Once open, expected by 2024, the bridge will provide a direct crossing for cyclists and walkers between Kangaroo Point and Brisbane’s CBD.

Cr Murphy highlighted that the green bridge will become a vital connection for residents and visitors as the city hosts more major events like the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Kangaroo Point Bridge
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Cr Murphy stated that the pedestrian and cyclist bridge will be a go-to destination for tourists whilst also linking Kangaroo Point to the Brisbane CBD and Gabba stadium. With Brisbane being Australia’s fastest growing capital, Cr Murphy emphasised the need to deliver transportation infrastructure that keeps pace with population growth and expands mobility options.

The bridge landings will also include two new dining destinations, Bombora and Mulga Bill’s from the Tassis Group.


Read: Get A Sneak Peek Of The Restaurant And Cafe Set To Open On the Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point


Estimates for the Kangaroo Point bridge project indicate that by 2036 over 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter and e-bike riders will cross the bridge each day.

Published 12-September-2023

Get A Sneak Peek Of The Restaurant And Cafe Set To Open On the Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point

The green bridge at Kangaroo Point, set to open its doors in 2024, is expected to provide a seamless pedestrian and bicycle connection, as well as an unforgettable dining experience at its strategically located restaurant and cafe.


Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Commences, Receives Additional Funding Support


Tassis, the renowned hospitality group behind restaurants like Yamas, Massimo, and Fatcow has won the tender and will introduce Bombora, an overwater restaurant and bar, along with Mulga Bill’s cafe on the city landing. 

Bombora

Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Perched above the majestic Brisbane River, Bombora promises an elegant and modern celebration of Australia’s land and sea.

The eatery derives its name from the Indigenous phrase that describes immense oceanic waves crashing upon hidden reefs or sandy banks, a fitting appellation for an establishment that presents a culinary journey as splendid as its surroundings.

Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

As guests enjoy the delicious food, they will be amazed by the stunning views of the Brisbane River, CBD, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point cliffs. The menu is yet to be revealed, but it will be inspired by the surrounding flowing waters.

Mulga Bill’s 

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Situated in the vibrant new urban plaza at the corner of Edward and Alice streets, Mulga Bill’s is the perfect stopover spot for bridge users seeking a respite from their journey. 

Inspired by Banjo Patterson’s famous poem Mulga Bill’s Bicycle, this casual all-day dining cafe will feature a bicycle-themed decor, paying homage to the many cyclists who will pass by the bridge. 

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

With an enticing array of wood-fired pizzas, succulent steaks, and fresh seafood, Mulga Bill’s ensures that every palate is satisfied. In addition, the cafe will offer delectable pastries and convenient picnic boxes for those looking for a quick and delicious bite on the go.

A Green Bridge for the Future

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

The Kangaroo Point green bridge will be exclusively accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport. 

With an estimated 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-mobility riders projected to use the bridge daily by 2036, this landmark infrastructure promises to transform commuting into an enjoyable experience. 


Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Reaches Important Milestone


Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a picturesque picnic by the riverside, the green bridge would offer a gateway to explore the beauty of Brisbane whilst minimising the carbon footprint.

Published 1-May-2023

Restaurant Operator Sought For Kangaroo Point Green Bridge’s Unique Dining Destination

The search is on for a hospitality operator who will take charge of the bar and restaurant perched above the $190 million Kangaroo Point Green Bridge.


Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Commences, Receives Additional Funding Support


Brisbane City Council is now progressing plans to secure one of Australia’s best hospitality operators for a landmark dining destination in the middle of the bridge, with real estate firm Colliers already in talks with some of the country’s best known restaurateurs.

The final design of Kangaroo Point Green Bridge features an above-water restaurant and dining space above the viewing area on the approach to the city landing and a café at the city landing plaza.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge design
Kangaroo Point Green Bridge commercial opportunity view of main mast and CBD (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

Other smaller food and beverage outlets are also proposed at viewing platforms along the length of the bridge, providing opportunities to pause and enjoy stunning river views.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge dining
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

With viewing platforms along the 460-metre span, the green bridge will also have a 100sq m cafe site, with panoramic views of the city, Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point cliffs.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge restaurant
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

“The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge won’t just be a bridge. It will be a destination,” said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner. 

“When this bridge is complete, it will be one of the best vantage points to take in Brisbane with panoramic views of our city and the campaign to secure an operator is expected to attract significant interest,” he said. 

Construction Update

As of April 2022, construction activities at the Kangaroo Point site will continue in preparation for major works starting in May 2022. 

Works include construction of a new shared path in C.T. White Park and site office sewerage connection works in C.T. White Park and Hamilton Street.

Based on the projected timeline, construction of the green bridge is expected to be complete by late 2023.