The Tasmanian government has released concept designs by GHD for a $130 million upgrade to the bridge linking Hobart’s eastern and western shores.
The Tasman Bridge was originally built and opened in the early 1960s. The refurbishment will be its first upgrade in almost 50 years after a section collapsed when an ore carrier struck it in 1975.
Concept designs for the Tasman Bridge upgrades.
Image:
GHD for Department of State Growth
Major improvements will include the provision of a 3.5 metre-wide cycle and pedestrian pathway on both sides of the bridge, along with heightened safety barriers, upgraded infrastructure and better lighting. The bridge will be structurally strengthened to support the addition of bigger pathways and allow for greater traffic demands.
Costs will be shared equally between the state and federal governments, with each committing $65 million to the transformation.
The Tasman Bridge is a key arterial route into the Hobart CBD, and Tasmania’s Bicycle Network has reportedly been lobbying for safer cycle paths for some years. The new paths will create a safer crossing for cyclists and pedestrians, making the journey more accessible for all commuters.
The state government is now inviting feedback from the local community to inform the development of reference designs. Designs are available for public comment from 27 June until 19 July.
Construction is expected to commence mid-2023, and the upgrade is expected to be completed by 2025.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
