Major contractors compete to build new $576M Bridgewater Bridge

Two of the countries major contractors have been shortlisted to take part in a competitive Early Contractor Involvement process for Hobart’s new Bridgewater Bridge.

This process will see contractors McConnell Dowell Constructors (Australia) and CPB Contractors develop design and construction methods for the $576 million project.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government has committed $461 million to this project, which crosses the Derwent River and is the gateway to the Midland Highway and the Island State’s north.

“The lifting span, built in the 1940s, has had ongoing maintenance issues and placed height and width restrictions on traffic,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the project is part of the $1.7 billion Hobart City Deal.

“It’s the largest single transport infrastructure project to be undertaken in Tasmania’s history,” Tudge said.

Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said the project would use local knowledge and expertise to help grow the Tasmanian economy and support jobs.

“The commitment to use local businesses, suppliers and materials was a key consideration in the selection of the two shortlisted companies,” Ferguson said.

“Delivering economic and social benefits for Tasmania is essential and each company will develop and submit Tasmanian Industry Participation Plans as part of their tenders to design and construct the new bridge.”

He said the contractors will now work with the Tasmanian Department of State Growth to refine their tenders for design and construction.

Following this process the preferred contractor will be selected. The design and construct contract is expected to be awarded by the end of 2021.

Part of the design will include grade separated interchanges at Bridgewater and Granton and a three metre wide shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.

The Tasmanian Government’s Buy Local policy will come into play for the assessment and selection of the successful tenderer.

Construction is expected to start in 2022 with the new bridge open to traffic by the end of 2024.

Funding for the bridge is joint, with the Federal Government committing $461 million and the Tasmanian Government $115 million.