Go Between Bridge to open to traffic on 5 July
28 June, 2010
Lord Mayor Campbell Newman has announced that the Go Between Bridge will open to traffic in the early hours of Monday 5 July 2010.
Brisbane’s first inner city road bridge in nearly 40 years will connect the northern and western suburbs to South Brisbane and West End.
Cr Newman said the bridge was now only days away from delivering benefits for Brisbane motorists.
“The Go Between Bridge will open to traffic in the early hours of the morning on Monday 5 July,” Cr Newman said.
“The new Go Between Bridge will relieve traffic congestion around the CBD and provide better access to some of Brisbane’s most popular education, recreation and cultural precincts.
“The bridge will also provide a crucial link between the cultural hub of South Brisbane and West End and the sporting precinct around Suncorp Stadium.
“The Go Between Bridge is an excellent alternative to William Jolly Bridge for traffic heading out of South Brisbane and West End, particularly during afternoon peak and major events, connecting you directly to the Inner City Bypass or Coronation Drive and getting you on your way home quicker.
Cr Newman said the Go Between Bridge was also the only CBD Bridge to provide dedicated pedestrian and cycleways, meaning a safe, easy passage for those who prefer to walk or cycle.
To celebrate the opening of the bridge, Council is holding a community market day on Sunday 4 July; an opportunity for all Brisbane residents to explore and walk the Go Between Bridge before it opens to traffic on Monday 5 July.
The community market day will feature arts and crafts markets, roving entertainment and food and drink stalls, bringing local flavours from both sides of the river.
The Go Between Bridge concert, held last night, drew a sell-out crow of around 5000 people.
A $42 million saving in construction costs on Go Between Bridge has been passed on to motorists with Council being able to reduce the expected toll price for the life of the project.
Motorists will pay only $1.50 until 31 December 2010 and then $2.00 from 1 January to 30 June 2011.
Formerly known as the Hale Street Link, Go Between Bridge was given its permanent name in September 2009 following a public submission and voting process that attracted thousands of votes.
The bridge, with its dedicated pedestrian and cyclist paths, is part of Council’s plan to ensure Brisbane is a well designed, accessible and connected city now and into the future.
For more information, visit www.gobetweenbridge.com.au
