The Queensland Government has released its preferred design for a four-lane Bribie Island Bridge, unveiling plans shaped by community input and intended to double current traffic capacity.
According to details released by the state, the new bridge will run parallel to the existing structure, with the current bridge set aside exclusively for pedestrian and cyclist use.
The government stated that this approach aims to improve safety and connectivity for Bribie Island residents while accommodating future growth.
Geotechnical investigations will commence this week to inform the design process and provide data for required environmental assessments. These investigations will examine ground and seabed conditions in the area.
Premier David Crisafulli said: “We’re delivering a new Bribie Island Bridge just as we promised. We are doubling the traffic capacity with a new bridge, and preserving the old bridge for pedestrians and cyclists. We’ve listened to fears about the ageing two-lane bridge, which were ignored by the former government, which is why we’re progressing our plan for a new four-lane bridge.”
While the government announcement focused on project milestones and the ongoing design process, official sources did not confirm the contract value.
However, local media reports have cited a figure of approximately A$756.56m ($527.82m) as the estimated cost for the business-case-recommended option.
The government opened a public feedback period on the preferred design, which is scheduled to run until 27 November 2026.
Information sessions are planned to take place in the coming weeks, offering local residents the opportunity to review the proposal and raise further concerns.
As the project moves into detailed design and environmental approval stages, state officials noted that cooperation with federal authorities would be required, particularly concerning environmental assessment processes.
The new Bribie Island Bridge was a key election pledge for the current government, which has criticised its predecessor for not advancing the project beyond preliminary planning.
No construction start date has yet been disclosed.
