Designs unveiled for pathways upgrade on Tasman Bridge

Pathways on the Tasman Bridge will be upgraded as part of the $130 million Tasman Bridge Upgrade project, and new designs have now been unveiled. 

The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments. 

“These new designs show the future of the Tasman Bridge – one that better supports walking, cycling and safer travel for everyone. 

“I’m pleased to see progress on this important project and look forward to seeing it deliver improved safety outcomes for the people of Hobart. 

“The Australian Government, in partnership with the Tasmanian Government, is proud to be investing in upgrades that make a real difference for local communities,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said. 

Design of the passing bay (source: TAS Transport Services)

The upgrade will include:

• Installing 3-metre-high waterside barriers on both pathways for improved safety
• Raising the height of the roadside barrier on both pathways to 1.2 metres to better separate pathway users from traffic
• Increasing width at handlebar and waist height and improving sight lines through crescent-shaped waterside barriers
• Adding reinforced mesh and handrails for additional protection and comfort
• Installing three new passing bays on each pathway to make passing easier and safer
• Removing the bridge maintenance towers

The designs were developed following consultation with key stakeholders and based on extensive technical assessments. 

“We are moving ahead with improvements to the Tasman Bridge’s pathways. 

“To develop the designs, we balanced extensive technical assessments with input from key stakeholders to deliver the safest and most practical solution within the unique limitations of the bridge. 

“The pathway upgrades will deliver several improvements to make the bridge safer for people using active transport, while also complementing the other stages of the Tasman Bridge Pathways Upgrade project. 

“Construction on the first stage of the project will start in the coming weeks to build a shared path underneath the Tasman Bridge on Hobart’s eastern shore, delivering improved connections to the bridge for active transport users,” TAS infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent said. 

Design of the safety barriers (source: TAS Transport Services)

The designs are available for viewing online as well as at the Hobart City Council on 16 Elizabeth Street and Clarence City Council on 38 Bligh Street in Rosny until 17 November 2025. 

Community members can also ask questions or request copies of the design by emailing tasmanbridgepathways@stategrowth.tas.gov.au. 

“Upgrading the Tasman Bridge pathways is an important step in improving safety and accessibility for everyone who uses this vital link. 

“Community input is key to getting this project right. I encourage the community to take the time to view the designs and share their feedback. 

“This upgrade is another example of how the Albanese Labor Government is investing in infrastructure that supports safer, more connected communities,” Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Tasmanian Government – Transport Services; Roads & Infrastructure Australia