(14/2/2019) New Fremantle Traffic Bridge on Infrastructure Australia priority list

The City of Fremantle is pleased the replacement of the old Fremantle Traffic Bridge has been added to Infrastructure Australia’s latest priority list.

In the updated list released today Infrastructure Australia included the replacement of the ageing bridge as a ‘priority initiative’ to be delivered in the ‘near term’.

In its project summary, Infrastructure Australia said the bridge was at the end of its useable life and at risk of closure, which would increase traffic pressure on the neighbouring Stirling Bridge, worsen travel times and impact on heavy freight access to Fremantle Port.

It said addressing the risk of closure could be achieved by renewing or replacing the existing bridge, or developing and improving alternative crossings and routes.

Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said replacing the traffic bridge with a new one in a similar location was one of the key projects outlined in the City’s ‘Freo 2029 – Transformational Moves’ strategy.

“We’re very pleased the replacement of the traffic bridge has now been recognised by Infrastructure Australia as a nationally significant project,” Mayor Pettitt said.

“The bridge is an important northern gateway into Fremantle, but it’s clear it’s reaching the end of its life as a carriageway for cars and trucks.

“If it were to close without a replacement being built it would have a massive impact on Fremantle, the port and the surrounding suburbs.

“Our Freo 2029 strategy proposes to build a new traffic bridge in the space between the existing bridge and the railway bridge, and also suggests adding a dedicated freight railway line.

“But we also see a great opportunity to retain the heritage-listed old bridge for use by cyclists and pedestrians, and transform it into a fantastic public space with seating and lookouts - maybe even a community market.

“The replacement of the bridge also provides the opportunity to greatly improve the connections between North Fremantle, Cantonment Hill, Queen Victoria Street, Victoria Quay and the riverfront.

“We look forward to pursuing these plans with the state and federal governments to ensure that, instead of just being demolished, the old traffic bridge is re-imagined as a community asset.”

Infrastructure Australia is an independent statutory body with a mandate to prioritise and progress nationally significant infrastructure. It provides independent research and advice to all levels of government as well as investors and owners of infrastructure.

For more information of the City of Fremantle’s plans for the traffic bridge visit the Freo 2029 - Transformational Moves page on the City’s website.

Below: The City of Fremantle's plans for a replacement traffic bridge.

Photo: The High Line, New York - an example of a bridge converted to public open space.