The New Bridgewater Bridge construction is anticipated to begin in the coming months. Preliminary work for the Tasmania’s largest-ever infrastructure project are already underway.
McConnell Dowell received the design and construction contract in July after being chosen as the preferred contractor in December 2021. Over the past six months, the company has worked to refine the bridge design and get ready to begin construction on the new bridge.
The new four-lane bridge will complete the Tasmanian National Highway’s missing section. This will enhance links between Granton and Bridgewater. Additionally, it will provide a safe shared path for bikes and pedestrians. With the completion of the project, the notorious congestion at the Granton roundabout will be gone. Thus, it will allow the 22,000 vehicles that cross the bridge every day to have free-flowing access.
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The New Bridgewater Bridge to boost the region’s business and create jobs
Gunn Street will connect with Old Main Road beneath the new bridge to create a continuous connection and greater open space. Additionally, a new ramp from Boyer Road onto the bridge will provide simple access for local traffic desiring to drive south. The route from Hobart to New Norfolk will be made continuous on the southern bank of the river. This is with the construction of a dedicated slip lane from Brooker Highway onto Lyell Highway.
A major goal of the New Bridgewater Bridge project is to boost the region’s business and create jobs. Thus, McConnell Dowell is attempting to enlist the aid of several Tasmanian organizations in its execution. More than 800 direct and indirect jobs will be supported by the bridge construction. These include more than 200 new opportunities for Tasmanians.
The Australian Government has pledged $628.8 million toward the $786 million jointly funded project as part of the Hobart City Deal. The Tasmanian Government has then committed the remaining $157.2 million. By the end of 2024, traffic is anticipated to be using the new bridge.
