Bribie Island residents are facing ongoing transport challenges, with heavy reliance on cars due to limited public transport options and an ageing bridge infrastructure.
Why a New Bridge is Needed
The current Bribie Island Bridge, built in the 1960s, remains functional but struggles to keep up with growing traffic and safety demands. A new bridge is planned to handle eastbound traffic and include an active transport path for pedestrians, cyclists, and mobility devices. The existing bridge will continue to serve westbound traffic.
Community feedback highlighted issues such as misaligned bus and train connections at Caboolture Station, limited public transport hours, inadequate bus shelters, and traffic congestion at key intersections.
A recent study by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has outlined plans for a new bridge and road upgrades to address these concerns.
A business case for the Bribie Island Bridge duplication project had been completed and will be discussed in the coming weeks.
The project has been estimated at around $700 million, with the figure first announced in mid-2024. Funding and construction timelines are expected to follow further discussions.
What the New Bridge Will Look Like
The new bridge design includes:
- Two eastbound traffic lanes.
- A dedicated active transport path offering views of the Glass House Mountains.
- Wider lanes and shoulders for improved safety.
- Crossing points to allow traffic to shift between bridges during incidents.
- Pelican perches over the water as a visual feature.
The new bridge will also sit up to 4 metres higher at its peak to accommodate structural requirements, drainage, and rising sea levels.
Community Feedback and Priorities
Over 3,600 residents participated in consultation in early 2023. Their top concerns included improving access, reducing congestion, and enhancing safety measures. Many supported the addition of an active transport path and reliable traffic management during incidents.
Suggestions also included repurposing the existing bridge for recreational activities such as fishing, markets, and community spaces, while preserving its heritage character.
Road Network Upgrades
The project includes widening Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to four lanes between Bestmann Road East and Benabrow Avenue, along with upgrades to key intersections such as Sylvan Beach Esplanade.
Benabrow Avenue, managed by the City of Moreton Bay, is also expected to undergo improvements to align with the bridge project.
Environmental Sustainability and Impact
Sustainability is a priority. Using the existing bridge for westbound traffic reduces environmental impacts. Environmental management plans will guide construction to minimise disruption to local flora, fauna, and marine habitats.
The project remains in its early stages, with funding and timelines still to be finalised. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg emphasised that no projects within his portfolio had been reprioritised but acknowledged the importance of managing costs across Queensland’s infrastructure commitments.
For now, residents can expect regular updates from TMR as the project progresses.
Photo Credit: Bribie Island Bridge/QLD Gov
Published 3-Jan-2025
