Cyclists, pedestrians big winners in bridge upgrade
The federal government has unveiled plans for upgrades to the Tasman Bridge — the most significant investment since repairs from the Lake Illawarra disaster in 1975. SEE THE DESIGNS >>
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PEDESTRIANS and cyclists are the big winners from a $65 million upgrade to the Tasman Bridge.
Tasmanian Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam yesterday unveiled artist impressions of upgrade works to the bridge funded in last week’s Federal Budget.
“This is the most significant investment in the Tasman Bridge since it was repaired following the Lake Illawarra disaster in 1975,” he said.
“The Tasman Bridge provides a critical link between eastern and western Hobart, as well as to the Hobart International Airport and regional areas beyond Greater Hobart.
“That’s why it’s so important the bridge undergoes upgrades to make it safer and more reliable.”
Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the project would see the bridge strengthened to accommodate increasing traffic, pathways widened and upgrades to maintenance and lighting infrastructure.
“Development and procurement for the project is expected to start in 2021. The project will take place in stages, and it is anticipated works will be completed in 2023-24,” he said.
The Bicycle Network welcomed the pathway improvements, which have been requested for years.
“The inadequate paths on the Tasman Bridge have been a major barrier to riding in Hobart,” Network spokeswoman Alison Hetherington said.
“Wider paths protected from wind and separated from traffic would encourage many more people to ride or walk to the city.”
“The Australian and Tasmanian governments are to be congratulated for investing in this much-needed infrastructure.”
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