After suddenly being closed earlier this year, on March 5, around the time that Cyclone Alfred hit our shores and after a report deemed several parts of the bridge an “extreme risk” to the public.
This led to Story Bridge’s footpaths being closed for 212 days, forcing around 4,000 commuters every day to take long detours, whether walking, cycling or scooting. Due to the disruption, a grassroots group of cyclists sprung up and has been running a bike bus to allow people to commute across a traffic lane of the Story Bridge on weekdays.
While other alternatives were explored, Council ruled out closing a traffic lane for a temporary cyclist and pedestrian lane earlier this year, stating it would cause widespread traffic issues on several adjacent streets.
Today, Friday, October 3, one of the Story Bridge’s footpaths is set to reopen, thanks to 300 metres of replacement city-side footpath decking made out of custom-made panels fixed onto a steel frame, in accordance with Brisbane City Council’s timeline, which forecast that the city-side footpath would reopen before the end of the year, and the eastern path is expected to follow soon, as its decking installation is on track as well.
Council has spent $80 million since 2019 in its efforts to restore Story Bridge, so the footpath issue is only the latest in a long, and increasingly serious, list. In fact, it has since been revealed the bridge would need a full restoration — requiring state and federal funding — over the next 15 to 20 years, or risk being closed and demolished by 2045.
“Delivering the first replacement footpath ahead of schedule means pedestrians and cyclists will once again be able to enjoy walking and riding across the river from tomorrow.
“I want to thank residents for their patience while these works have been carried out. I know it’s been a disruption, but the result is a stronger and safer pathway for everyone.
“This project is part of our long-term plan to restore the Story Bridge so it remains in great condition for future generations.”