This project involves construction of a new two lane bridge across the south arm of the Hunter River to replace the existing Tourle Street Bridge.
The existing crossing is being replaced because it has passed its useful life expectancy and is not economically feasible to upgrade.
A contract was awarded to Daracon Contractors to construct the new Tourle Street Bridge in August 2007. Construction is underway with the new crossing currently scheduled to be completed in mid 2009 (weather permitting).
The new structure is being built immediately east of the existing bridge that connects Newcastle with Kooragang Island. The new bridge will provide wider lanes and an improved curve alignment to improve safety and traffic flow. When the new bridge is built, the existing structure will be demolished and the site retained for construction of a second bridge.
In the longer term, when future growth at Newcastle Port, Newcastle Airport and in the Port Stephens area stimulates further growth in traffic volumes, the bridge will be duplicated to provide a four lane crossing of the Hunter River.
Background
The Tourle Street Bridge provides a direct route between Newcastle, the industrial area and Newcastle Port facilities on Kooragang Island, and Newcastle Airport at Williamtown.
The existing seven span, steel truss bridge was built over the south channel of the Hunter River in 1965 and has load limits restricting travel for some heavy vehicles. The new bridge will be built to the east of the existing bridge and will support greater vehicle loads.
Features
The project includes the following features:
A new two lane bridge to the east of the existing crossing.
Two 3.5 metre wide lanes.
Two metre wide shoulders.
A separate pedestrian/cycle path.
Benefits
Safer travelling conditions.
Improved sight distances for motorists.
Fewer maintenance related closures of the crossing.
A stronger bridge for heavy loads.
Progress so far
May 2004 – Environmental assessment completed.
December 2006 – Detailed design completed.
December 2006 – Tenders called.
August 2007 – Contract awarded.
October 2007 – Construction underway.
Involving the community
The RTA will use a variety of communication tools to keep the public informed of the progress of the work and impacts on traffic. Updates will be published regularly and available on this website.
Further information
For further information about the project, please contact the project manager, Peter McTackett on (02) 4924 0318 during business hours or email Peter_McTackett@rta.nsw.gov.au.
Postal address:
Tourle Street Bridge project
Roads and Traffic Authority
Locked bag 30
NEWCASTLE NSW 2300
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