Thousands of Tasmanians will make history this Sunday when they become the first people to walk across the new Bridgewater Bridge before it opens to traffic.
The community celebration on June 1 marks a major milestone in the $786 million infrastructure project, giving locals a rare opportunity to experience the new bridge on foot before vehicles hit the road.
The Department of State Growth is hosting the event from 10am to 4pm, with bridge walks running alongside a community festival at the project’s precast yard on Cove Hill Road in Bridgewater.
“To support pedestrian safety, the speed limit through the new Bridgewater Bridge project site will be reduced to 40km/h during the event period,” a spokesperson said.
“Motorists are advised to avoid the area unless attending the event and to seek alternative routes where possible.”
Local residents can walk directly to the bridge, with pedestrian access available across the Brooker and Midland highways at both ends for the duration of the event.
Timed walking sessions are also open for registration, with shuttle buses running every 15 minutes from multiple pick-up points, including Brighton Civic Centre, the Trade Training Centre and MyState Bank Arena.
Buses will drop participants at the bridge, where they can enjoy the walk before boarding another shuttle for the return trip. Those who prefer not to walk can remain on board and still cross the bridge by bus.
Parking will be available at several locations and services will operate between MyState Bank Arena and Bridgewater throughout the day to help manage the crowds.
Organisers have asked visitors to wear flat, enclosed shoes and follow the directions of traffic controllers.
The new Bridgewater Bridge will officially open to traffic on Monday morning.
