In February 2007, the RTA commenced work to duplicate Alfords Point Bridge over the Georges River between Alfords Point and Padstow Heights.
The project will result in two parallel bridges, each with two lanes plus a breakdown lane. The existing bridge will carry northbound traffic and the new bridge will carry southbound traffic.
This project is fully funded by the NSW Government.
Background
The existing three-lane Alfords Point Bridge was opened in 1973. It replaced a vehicular punt that operated between Lugarno and Illawong. At the time the existing bridge was built, the piles and abutments for a second bridge were also constructed.
Since its opening, traffic on Alfords Point Bridge has been managed by a ‘tidal flow’ system, in which two of the three lanes operate northbound during the morning peak, switching to two lanes operating southbound during the evening peak.
Bridge duplication
The new bridge is being constructed on the existing piles and abutments, and will provide two lanes for southbound traffic, a breakdown lane/shoulder and a 3.3m wide shared pedestrian and cyclist path. Once the new bridge is built, the existing bridge will be converted to two lanes for northbound traffic with a breakdown lane/shoulder.
Construction work for the bridge duplication is being undertaken by Abigroup, and is scheduled for completion in July 2008.
Benefits
By removing the tidal flow arrangements on the Alfords Point Bridge during the morning and evening peak periods, the duplication of Alfords Point Bridge will improve road safety and traffic flow in both directions.
The new bridge has been designed to ensure it is compatible with the existing structures and will look similar to the existing bridge.
Alfords Point Road northern approach
The RTA has developed a concept design to upgrade the northern approach to Alfords Point Bridge.
This proposal would improve road safety and regional traffic flow by removing tidal flow arrangements on Alfords Point Road.
Background
Work to duplicate Alfords Point Bridge commenced in February 2007 and is scheduled for completion in July 2008. Completion of the duplication of Alfords Point Bridge will remove the need for the tidal flow arrangement that is currently operating on the existing bridge.
The northern approach to Alfords Point Bridge also operates under a tidal flow arrangement. Presently, two lanes are provided in the northbound in the morning peak, two lanes southbound in the afternoon peak, and one lane in the off-peak direction.
Key features
The concept design features:
Two traffic lanes and a break-down shoulder in each direction between Alfords Point Bridge and Clancy Street, Padstow Heights.
A new road bridge over Henry Lawson Drive.
A concrete safety barrier to separate northbound and southbound traffic between Alfords Point bridge and the road bridge over Henry Lawson Drive.
Retention of all existing access points from local roads.
A new dedicated pedestrian/cyclist path connecting Padstow Heights and Illawong.
A dedicated acceleration lane at the on-ramp from Clancy Street for southbound traffic.
Review of environmental factors
The RTA has carried out a range of investigations, including geotechnical, road traffic noise monitoring, Aboriginal and cultural heritage studies, urban design and visual assessments as part of the review of environmental factors.
A copy of the Review of Environmental Factors is available by clicking here. The review is available for purchase on CD ROM for $10 (including GST) or hardcopy for $25 (including GST) from Padstow Motor Registry, Shop 1, 11 Cahors Road, Padstow.
What has happened so far?
The concept design and Review of Environmental Factors was on display from 10 December 2007 to 25 January 2008.
The RTA has:
- Finalised a preferred construction option and developed plans following investigations and community feedback.
- Completed a Review of Environment Factors (REF), to assess environmental and social impacts, including traffic impacts, urban design, flora and fauna and construction noise and vibrations.
- Addressed public comments and submissions on the proposal.
- Proceeded with detailed design, taking into consideration the results of the REF and all written community feedback and submissions.
What is happening now?
- Detailed design is underway.
- Further investigations will be undertaken to determine the most appropriate noise treatment to be provided along the northern approach to Alfords Point Bridge.
- Construction tenders will be called in September 2008 with work expected to commence in early 2009.
Further information
For more information about the Alfords Point Bridge northern approach project please contact Kevin Hough, RTA project manager, on phone (02) 8849 5219 or email Kevin_Hough@rta.nsw.gov.au.
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