Statement: Bribie Island Bridge plan takes shape

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Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Bribie Island Bridge plan takes shape

Residents and families have an opportunity to provide input into the design and plan for a future Bribie Island bridge.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson joined Member for Pumicestone Lisa France to inspect the existing bridge today following the release of a concept plan to replace the existing 50-year old structure.

"As part of our strong plan to deliver better infrastructure, we have started work to cater for the increasing demand of residents and families visiting Bribie Island," Mr Emerson said.

"The next step is to secure the corridor, undertake geotechnical work in the passage and develop a business case based on community feedback."

The recommended corridor for the new bridge is located to the north of the existing bridge and would be wide enough to accommodate four traffic lanes and a footpath.

The concept plan also shows:

    projections for increased pedestrian, cycling and freight traffic
    the importance of the bridge to the local economy
    the existing bridge's capacity.

Mrs France said while the plan showed there was existing capacity, there had been seven closures in the past five years, isolating the community for up to four hours at a time.

"We are planning for the future and community input is vital to help shape the design of our iconic bridge," she said.

"My community has provided me with many great suggestions about fishing platforms, a pedestrian and cycle promenade, access for sailing boats, viewing platforms and I look forward to hearing more great ideas.

"Residents can send their suggestions to pumicestone@parliament.qld.gov.au or by contacting my office.

"This is a great opportunity to have your say on future infrastructure in the area, and I encourage everyone to go online from tomorrow to have a look at the corridor."

Transport and Main Roads will prepare a $2 million business case over the next 12 months.

The report can be found at www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/B/Bribie-Island-Bridge-corridor-study from 12pm today.

[ENDS] 3 September 2014