A Canterbury-Bankstown bridge that was the scene of a horror crash has been given a facelift to create safer access for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
The Fifth Avenue/Burwood Road Bridge, which crosses the Cooks River and connects Canterbury-Bankstown to Burwood, received a $900,000 makeover to improve safety and accessibility.
The bridge rehabilitation and safety improvement project, which was funded by Transport for NSW, City of Canterbury Bankstown and Burwood Council, was fast tracked after a Honda Jazz vehicle with three young men crashed into the bridge fence, before plunging several metres into the river in September 2020.
The three men, all aged in their 20s, were lucky to escape with only minor injuries.
The bridge upgrade works included the installation of an innovative ‘Dolre’ safety barrier to deflect vehicles and protect pedestrians, along with resurfacing of the bridge road decking and footpaths.
Accessibility to the bridge has also been improved with upgrades to the handrails and ramp connections.
To officially mark the opening of the bridge, both Council Mayors (pictured) gathered at the midway point of the bridge as a symbolic gesture of the connection between both Councils.
Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor, Bilal El-Hayek said the project was a joint investment to improve safety for all.
“The bridge is a major route which carriers thousands of vehicles each day, including local delivery trucks and buses,” he said.
“Whether you’re driving, cycling or walking, we’re committed to enhancing safety for everyone commuting through our City.”
Burwood Mayor, John Faker said the bridge upgrade was a great example of collaboration between the two Councils and the State Government.
“We are delighted to see this vital link between our communities enhanced with better safety and accessibility features,” Mayor Faker said.
“It’s a powerful symbol of our commitment to improving the livability and connectivity of our area, delivering infrastructure that serves the needs of our residents, businesses and visitors.”
