The sod has been turned and major construction on the new Mandurah Estuary Bridge in Western Australia is now underway.
The $136 million Mandurah Estuary Bridge Duplication will deliver a second, two-lane bridge on the south side of the existing bridge. The new structure will provide additional traffic lanes for the original bridge, helping slash congestion in Mandurah and Dawesville.
In addition, a new four-metre-wide shared path is also going to be constructed to give the local community better access to recreational activities such as fishing.
“This project has been long awaited by the local community and I am very pleased that work is now underway on this key election commitment.
“Duplicating the bridge will significantly reduce congestion that is currently experienced on approach to the bridge and cut travel times for the thousands of commuters who use the bridge each day,” Premier Roger Cook said.
“It’s fantastic to have broken ground on this project today, one that is critical for people in the Mandurah community.
“Duplicating the bridge will ensure we minimise that congestion and make the journey safer and quicker for thousands of Mandurah commuters every day,” State Member for Mandurah David Templeman said.
The existing Mandurah Estuary Bridge currently caters to more than 33,000 vehicles each day and congestion is an ongoing issue, especially during the busy holiday seasons.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments, each contributing $68 million.
“I’m proud the Australian and Western Australian Governments are able to work together to deliver this welcome transport improvement for Mandurah.
“This bridge is not just an essential piece of infrastructure, but a vital link between families, businesses and communities which will soon experience better and more reliable transport connection between northern and southern Mandurah,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.
“The duplication of the bridge will reduce congestion, improve safety and bring about time savings for people who need to commute in and out of Mandurah.
“This bridge experienced high traffic volumes with around 33,000 vehicles per day due to the population growth in the Mandurah and Peel regions, so the duplication will address these issues,” WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.
The original bridge was built in the 1980s and it was designed with future duplication in mind.
An incremental launch method will be utilised to build the new bridge. It will involve the construction of 15 concrete bridge segments on site and incrementally launched across the estuary from the south-eastern embankment.
The new Mandurah Estuary Bridge is due to be completed by late 2025.
“Duplicating this critical bridge will provide Mandurah road users smoother, safer, faster and better access between the north and south of the city.
“The Australian Government will continue to invest in infrastructure like duplicating the Mandurah Estuary Bridge to support liveable, safe and healthy communities across Western Australia,” Senator for Western Australia Louise Pratt said.
“I made a commitment to deliver this bridge duplication for the people of the Dawesville electorate, and that is what we are doing,” State Member for Dawesville Lisa Munday said.
“Once completed, the duplication will reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance the overall travel experience for South West residents,” State Member for Murray Wellington Robyn Clarke said.
Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Main Roads Western Australia; WA Building for Tomorrow; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government