The existing single-lane weir bridge, which crosses the Brisbane River to connect Kholo and Mt Crosby, has been earmarked to be converted into a pedestrian pathway, with the new dual-lane bridge built alongside it for vehicle traffic.

The multi-million-dollar project is embedded within the East Bank Flood Resilience Program– a program of work to improve flood resilience and connectivity within the growing area.

Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said the new bridge would not only improve traffic flow but also provide greater flood resilience.

“The new bridge will be built almost three-metres higher than the existing bridge and is designed to better withstand flooding and recover from being inundated, should the unlikely event occur,” Mr Butcher said.

“The dual lane will also improve the flow of traffic for the growing community and ensure that large vehicles such as truck and buses can cross safely.”   

The construction contract for the new bridge was recently awarded to BMD Constructions, with construction expected to begin in the coming months and completed before the end of 2023.

Seqwater Chief Executive Officer Neil Brennan said while the work moved ahead on building the new bridge, work was also progressing to repair and reopen the existing Mt Crosby Weir Bridge, which was significantly damaged during the extreme weather event in late-February this year. 

“Engineering assessments have been completed to assess the damage and we are now working to repair and reopen the bridge to traffic,” Mr Brennan said.

“We realise this is an inconvenience for motorists who use the bridge regularly and appreciate their patience while we work to make the bridge safe for travel once again.”

Mr Brennan said once the new bridge is built, the 96-year-old Mount Crosby Weir Bridge will be repurposed as a cycle and walkway to improve the local amenity and retain its historical significance. 

“The East Bank Flood Resilience Program will help to safeguard important assets including the Mt Crosby East Bank Water Treatment Plant. The East Bank and West Bank plants supply about 50 per cent of South East Queensland’s drinking water,” Mr Brennan said.

In addition to the bridge other projects in the East Bank Flood Resilience Program include civil and enabling works for a new Energex substation, renovations to the historical Works Hill Residential Precinct and the construction of a new kindergarten.

For more information on the East Bank Flood Resilience Program visit  https://www.seqwater.com.au/project/east-bank-flood-resilience-program