The Walter Taylor Bridge, a crucial link between Chelmer and Indooroopilly, is set for a temporary closure this month, reigniting discussions about its future.
Read: Walter Taylor Bridge Closes for Maintenance: Chelmer Commuters To Face Detours
As the structure prepares to shut down from September 13 to 30 for maintenance, stakeholders are divided on how to address the growing traffic demands in this bustling corridor.
Michael Kane, head of public policy at RACQ, suggested that traffic modelling indicates a need for bridge duplication by 2041, if not sooner.
Mr Kane acknowledged that such a project would be complex and costly for the council, and given its local nature and competing priorities, substantial state or federal funding seems unlikely. He advocates for more detailed modelling to refine traffic forecasts and potential upgrade timelines.
Former transport minister Mark Bailey argued for a more urgent approach. He contends that a replacement bridge is needed much sooner than 2041, describing the current structure as one of Brisbane’s worst bottlenecks due to its single lane connecting the inner city to the Centenary suburbs.
Despite these calls for action, plans for duplication have stalled. Cr Andrew Wines, the council’s civic cabinet chair for infrastructure, attributes this to a lack of support from state and federal governments. In response, Transport Minister Bart Mellish stated that the responsibility for the bridge’s future lies with the local government, as it is a council asset.
Alternative solutions are also being proposed. Greens MP Michael Berkman suggests reopening the Tennyson rail line as a potential alternative to a new river crossing.
Meanwhile, Cr Nicole Johnston advocates for a more comprehensive approach, proposing an extension of the City Cat ferry service further upriver to provide an alternative transport option for university students and others.
Read: Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters
With stakeholders divided and funding uncertain, the future of this vital river crossing remains unclear. As the city evolves, finding a solution that satisfies all parties while meeting the area’s long-term needs will be crucial to keeping Brisbane moving forward.
Published 3-September-2024