Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent (left), Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (centre) and Premier Jeremy Rockliff cut the ribbon at the opening of the Bridgewater Bridge. Photos: Anthony Albanese Facebook.
A new bridge in Hobart’s northern suburbs has been opened by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff.
The Bridgewater Bridge, which connects the suburb of Bridgewater on the Derwent River’s north shore with Granton and Hobart’s western and southern suburbs, is the largest transport infrastructure project in the state’s history.
The $786 million project to build the bridge was jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Tasmanian governments, with the federal contribution $628.8 million and the balance from the state.
The 1.2-kilometre four-lane bridge is designed to make commuting faster and more reliable, with a large roundabout connecting on and off-ramps at both ends to reduce bottlenecks on what is considered a key section of the state’s Midland Highway.
The bridge also includes improved access for marine traffic, with a higher clearance and no lift span. The previous bridge largely comprised a rock wall with a short lift span at the northern end.
Construction of the new bridge began in October 2022, and the project has been delivered on schedule and budget.
Some site works will continue, including landscaping, construction of a new roundabout linking Old Main Road and Gunn Street, and removal of the temporary bridge and barges.
Mr Albanese said the government was building Australia’s future by investing in transformative transport infrastructure such as the Bridgewater Bridge.
“We have worked with the Tasmanian Government to deliver a landmark project that will improve safety, deliver a better commuter experience, and boost productivity in this great state,” he said.
“The Bridgewater Bridge is about more than meeting the needs of Tasmanians today – it’s about making sure that Tasmanians have the world-class infrastructure they deserve for generations to come.”
The new bridge connects Bridgewater on the Derwent River’s north shore with Granton and Hobart’s western and southern suburbs.
Premier Rockliff said the new bridge was built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and was something that everyone in the state could be proud of.
“The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project, we have delivered it,” he said.
“The new bridge is a testament to what we can achieve in Tasmania when we work together.
“Major infrastructure projects like this inspire, support our economy, upskill our people, and build a better Tasmania, now and for the future.
“I want to acknowledge the Federal Government for working with us to deliver this intergenerational infrastructure for Tasmania.”
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent said the bridge was a testament to what could be achieved when state and federal governments worked together.
“It is more than just concrete and steel. It is a once-in-a-generation project and a symbol of what the future holds for Tasmania,” he said.
“I want to thank the local community for their patience and understanding during the construction period.
“The resilience of the local community and the travelling public is what has made this landmark of national significance a success.”
