Brisbane’s newest bridge has been recognised for its Australian-first construction techniques including using infrared sensors, drones and solar-powered lifts.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge has received an ‘excellent’ design rating from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council’s Design Rating Scheme, and is the first Brisbane City Council project to receive an excellent rating.
The rating considers the bridge’s use of renewable energy, employment of local suppliers and inclusion of innovative technology.
“Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest growing capital cities and we are committed to delivering bridges that keep Brisbane moving,” said Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner.
“The Kangaroo Point Bridge has been talked about for more than 100 years and we are excited to be able to officially open the bridge in December.
“We want to build a better Brisbane and it’s fantastic that projects in our Bridges for Brisbane program have been recognised for their design and sustainability.”
For the first time in Australia the Kangaroo Point Bridge used drones to complete water sampling and cameras with infrared sensors to monitor river levels and flood risk during heavy rain.
In a Queensland first, the construction of a river-based tower crane for the duration of the project allowed for above-water assembly which minimised impacts to the river and the community.
The bridge will continue its sustainability legacy once complete with 75 solar panels to capture enough energy to power the lighting and lifts along and under the bridge deck.
Further along the river, the Breakfast Creek Bridge has been recognised as the Project of the Year and winner of the Construction and Engineering category at the national 2024 Project Management Achievement Awards.
Established in 2000, the awards recognise outstanding achievements in project management across the country.
This national accolade follows the success of the project in the Queensland awards earlier this year when the bridge won the state award for Construction and Engineering.
The Breakfast Creek Bridge averages more than 2,250 crossings a day and is a safe and direct link for northside residents into the CBD.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge is a joint venture between the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council and is one of the first projects to be delivered under the landmark South East Queensland City Deal.
“We are proud to be delivering city shaping projects that make it easier for people to leave the car at home and embrace an active lifestyle,” said Chair for Transport, Ryan Murphy.
“The Kangaroo Point Bridge will open in December and will help bust congestion by taking 84,000 cars off the road every year, keeping Brisbane moving.”
