Brisbane’s new bridges exceed expectations with 1.4 million crossings

Brisbane, February 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Brisbane’s two newest bridges have exceeded all expectations, with more than 1.4 million trips taken since their openings, far surpassing forecasted usage.

The Breakfast Creek / Yowoggera Bridge alone has seen over 900,000 crossings in its first 12 months—70% more than initial projections. The popular northside bridge connects Newstead Park to the Lores Bonney Riverwalk, providing an uninterrupted active travel route into the CBD.

Meanwhile, the Kangaroo Point Bridge, which opened in December 2024, has recorded over 520,000 crossings in just eight weeks. The bridge has quickly become a vital link, expected to reduce commute times between the CBD and eastern suburbs by up to 15 minutes and walking times between Kangaroo Point, The Gabba, and the city by up to 30 minutes.

Brisbane City Council’s Chair for Transport, Ryan Murphy, said the overwhelming response to the bridges proves their importance in making the city more accessible.

“We’ve been blown away by the popularity of these bridges,” Murphy said. “Patronage across both bridges is already 70% above predicted figures for 2036, let alone the much lower numbers which were expected in 2025.”

The Kangaroo Point Bridge is set to attract even more visitors with the opening of two highly anticipated dining destinations, Mulga Bill’s Café and Stilts, this month.

Both bridges were delivered under the Schrinner Council’s Bridges for Brisbane program, aimed at easing congestion and promoting active transport options.

With rising construction costs, the Toowong-to-West End Bridge will be the last bridge built under the initiative. The landing site at the former ABC headquarters has been secured, and Brisbane City Council is now seeking federal funding to move forward with a business case.

“The proof is in the patronage— people love our bridges, and the Schrinner Council will continue to deliver the legacy projects that will keep Brisbane moving now and into the future,” Murphy added.

The Kangaroo Point Bridge was delivered in partnership with the Australian Government under the South East Queensland City Deal, demonstrating the power of collaboration in shaping Brisbane’s future as a walkable, connected city.