The Tasman Bridge in Tasmania is a step closer to receiving its first major upgrade since it was built in 1975 following the release of concept plans for public comment for the project.
The $130 million upgrade is part of the commitment under the Hobart City Deal that aims to improve access in the city. The Tasman Bridge upgrade project is jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, each providing $65 million.
“The Tasman Bridge forms part of the key urban freight and passenger corridor in Hobart, being a vital link between the eastern and western suburbs of the city.
“The Australian Government is committed to improving road safety and access, to ensure commuters get home safe and sound, and that’s exactly what this upgrade is all about,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.
The project will include the delivery of a 3.5-metre pathway on both sides of the bridge to help enhance cyclist and pedestrian access, higher safety barriers, upgrades to maintenance infrastructure, and installation of feature and security lighting.
The upgrade will also include a new lane use management system for lane control during peak hours to improve the flow of traffic. This will also enable workers to work safely by removing the need for them to be on the road while working.
These works will ultimately strengthen the Tasman Bridge, providing all bridge users with improved safety and active transport connections between the eastern and western shores.
“The upgrade will make this iconic and much-loved Tasmanian landmark and critical transport link more suitable for contemporary demands, including the growing number of people looking for an alternative to car use.
“It will provide safety and ease of use for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles and enhance its appearance,” TAS Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said.
The local community is now invited to have their say on the concept design for the Tasman Bridge upgrade through the project’s dedicated web page here.
The concept designs will also be displayed at the offices of Clarence City Council and City of Hobart as well as at the Eastlands Shopping Centre, Bellerive Yacht Club, Lindisfarne Sailing Club and Libraries Tasmania’s Hobart library.
“I know more and more Eastern Shore residents are choosing to walk or ride on the Tasman Bridge so these upgrades are critical for safety.
“I encourage residents to take the opportunity to provide feedback on the concept designs,” Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins said.
Feedback gathered from the community sessions will help in developing the reference design, which will also be made public once it is completed.
The tender for the final design and construction of the Tasman Bridge upgrade will be released late this year and major construction on the project is due to begin in mid-2023.
Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Tasmanian Government – Transport Services; Premier of Tasmania – Media Release; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; ABC News ; Premier of Tasmania - Media Release