Sydney Harbour Bridge precinct

Waterproofing and resurfacing

The bridge is open - waterproofing and resurfacing is now complete

Lanes 1 - 6 

Overview

This is the first time in the Sydney Harbour Bridge 80 year history that we have stripped back to the original concrete deck to carry out essential maintenance. The benefits of the resurfacing and waterproofing include:

  • Creating a smoother and more durable road surface.
  • Reducing road noise as the new surface will be smoother and quieter than the current one.
  • Reducing the risk of corrosion and structural damage on the bridge deck.
  • Rejuvenating the bridge which will be 80 years old on 19 March 2012.

Waterproofing the bridge deck has minimised the need for future repairs. The work extends from Fitzroy Street in the north to Cumberland Street in the south. This work is especially important on the southern and northern approaches to the bridge. A new epoxy waterproofing material has been applied, in part by hand, to maximise the waterproofing process.

The project went smoothly, in spite of wet weather. The bridge was able to be opened 10 hours ahead of schedule on Sunday 22 January 2012.

More information

To view or download some commonly asked questions and answers about this work, click here.

For more information contact Gina Kelly, Roads and Maritime Services communications on 1800 822 486 or by email sydney_harbour_bridge_projects@rta.nsw.gov.au.

Milling equipment Work on the bridge 20-22 January Preparing to waterproof lanes 4 - 6 Preparing to waterproof lanes 4 - 6 Drying the bridge deck Preparing the surface of the deck for waterproofing Work suspended during rain 9.30am 21 January 2012 Workers assembling at Rozelle Bay prior to commencing work on the weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Workers assembling for site induction briefing prior to commencing work on the weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Work to rewaterproof the bridge weekend of 14 and 15 January 2012 Original waterproofing of the bridge