New Causeway Pedestrian & Cyclist Bridges project continues to take shape

The $100 million Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges project in Western Australia continues to take shape, with fabrication works now underway at Civmec’s Henderson facility. 

The two new six-metre-wide cable-stayed bridges are being built just west of the existing Causeway Bridge, and it will link the Victoria Park foreshore at McCallum Park with Heirisson Island and Perth’s CBD at Point Fraser. 

Building the new bridges will help alleviate the growing pressure on the paths of the existing bridge structure that is used by over 3,000 cyclists and pedestrians each day. 

“This is a transformational project for one of the most iconic bridges and a gateway entrance to East Perth that will ultimately bring more people into the Perth CBD. 

“Our Government is committed to ensuring Perth remains connected through new major infrastructure projects – like the upgrades to the Causeway Bridge, with more than 3,000 pedestrians and cyclists accessing it every day. 

“The Cook Government is jointly funding this project with the Federal Government, and this is all part of our major projects program – like the ECU city campus – which are all about bringing more people into the city as part of its renewal,” Perth MLA John Carey said. 

Over the past few months, works have been ramping up on site and piling works are being delivered at McCallum Park, Heirisson Island and Point Fraser in preparation for marine construction to begin this month. 

Construction of a temporary loadout facility – similar to a jetty – is now getting underway, and it will be used to transport bridge segments and materials onto vessels and barges. 

The bridge deck is manufactured in 22-24 metre segments while the pylons are 47-54 metres long. All bridge segments are going to be transported by road to the McCallum Park construction site. 

“Our Government has a strong focus on investing in active transport infrastructure and the Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges will be an incredible addition to our network. 

“We know how constrained the existing pedestrian and cycling path on the Causeway Bridge is, and this project will deliver safer and easier access to our CBD. 

“As we’ve seen with Matagarup Bridge, these bridges become a major meeting point for our families, pedestrians, and cyclists, whilst also providing a tourism experience. 

“This project represents a vital investment in dedicated pedestrian and cycling infrastructure that will meet the increasing demand, while still ensuring safety and convenience for our users,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said. 

Artist impression of the new Causeway bridges (source: Main Roads Western Australia)

The design of the new bridges was consulted with the Matagarup Elders Group (MEG) and it draws inspiration from the significance of the area to the Noongar people. 

Two of the three pylons that will support the cable-stayed bridges are in the shape of wannas (digging sticks) while one is in the shape of a koylie (boomerang). On the other hand, the s-shaped curves of the bridges represent the movement of the Wagyl (rainbow serpent). 

“More than 3,000 pedestrians and cyclists currently use the existing Causeway path on a daily basis. The new 6-metre-wide shared path will greatly improve the safety of those who wish to walk or ride to and from Victoria Park to the city. The new bridges will also greatly improve enjoyment of our beautiful area and the city, and become an attraction for locals and tourists alike. 

“The new Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges will link my community of Victoria Park with Matagarup (Heirisson Island) and Boorloo (Perth City), creating increased connectivity between our inner-city suburbs and the Perth CBD. 

“By incorporating references to prominent Whadjuk Noongar figures like Yagan and Balbuk, we’re able to recognise the significance Matagarup (Heirisson Island) and the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) have to Whadjuk Noongar culture and heritage,” Victoria Park MLA Hannah Beazley said. 

The Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments, each contributing $50 million. 

The $100 million development is estimated to support hundreds of jobs, providing employment for local skilled workers and contributing to the local economy. 

“The investment in the new transport bridges by the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments will make a dramatic difference to the local community by creating a valuable and functional connection to the city. 

“It’s a project that is creating jobs for local people at the site and here in Henderson. 

“It has been great to meet some of them over the past few months as the works on the site near my office get underway,” Swan MP Zaneta Mascarenhas said. 

Artist impression of the new bridges community space (source: Main Roads Western Australia)

Once completed, the new bridges will improve safety, connectivity and amenity for path users who commute to work, education, local businesses, and tourists. 

The Causeway Link Alliance – comprised of Civmec Construction and Engineering Pty Ltd, Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd, WSP Australia Pty Ltd and Main Roads WA – was appointed to undertake the delivery of the project. 

“We are making extensive investments into infrastructure and transport for the future. The Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges will be a major landmark in Perth that will attract more people riding and walking to the CBD. 

“Our Government is investing significantly to improve access, vibrancy and liveability in the CBD, and in doing so we’re helping support local jobs and businesses. 

“The new bridges are magnificent structures, and importantly the design draws inspiration from the rich Noongar culture and heritage of the area,” Premier Roger Cook said. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Main Roads Western Australia; WA Building for Tomorrow