Four-lane Bribe Island Bridge – A new era for our community
Artist's impression of Bribie Island Bridge Upgrade
Major infrastructure project promises safer travel, reduced congestion and improved access to Bribie Island.
After years of discussions, planning and community concerns, Bribie Island residents finally have something significant to look forward to, with the Queensland Government unveiling its preferred design for a brand-new four-lane bridge connecting the Island to the mainland.
Announced on October 19 by Premier David Crisafulli's government, the project represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments for Bribie Island and surrounding communities in decades.
The new bridge will feature two traffic lanes in each direction, doubling the existing crossing's vehicle capacity and providing a much-needed improvement to the Island's only road connection.
For residents who regularly experience traffic congestion, particularly during weekends, public holidays and peak tourist periods, the announcement is welcome news.
Local Member Welcomes Progress
Ariana Doolan Member for Pumicestone said “The new four-lane Bribie Island Bridge is a significant step forward for Pumicestone.
This project will improve connectivity, ease pressure on our growing community and future-proof this essential link for decades to come. Retaining the existing bridge as an active transport connection is also a great outcome for pedestrians and cyclists.
We’re delivering the modern transport infrastructure Pumicestone deserves, helping residents, businesses and emergency services get where they need to go, safer and sooner.”
She also welcomed the announcement, describing it as a long-awaited turning point for the community.
The announcement marks an important step towards delivering a project that has been discussed for many years.
What will happen to the existing Bridge?
Rather than demolishing the current bridge, which opened in 1963, the government plans to retain it exclusively for pedestrians, cyclists and people using mobility devices.
This will create a dedicated crossing over Pumicestone Passage, providing an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful waterway without competing with vehicle traffic.
The project also includes widening Bribie Island Road to four lanes between Bestmann Road East and Benabrow Avenue, improving intersections and installing traffic lights at the Sandstone Point Hotel access.
The next stage
The project is currently in the detailed design phase, with geotechnical investigations beginning in October to examine ground and seabed conditions to help inform environmental assessments.
These investigations will help engineers finalise designs and complete the necessary environmental assessments.
When will the bridge be completed?
Construction has previously been anticipated to commence in 2028, subject to the necessary approvals.
The Queensland Government has indicated an ambition to complete the bridge before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, although a confirmed completion date has not been announced.
Environmental approvals and construction requirements will play a major role in determining the final timetable.
A major investment in Bribie's future
The new bridge represents an estimated investment of more than $750 million in the region's future.
Beyond improving traffic flow, the four-lane crossing is expected to provide better emergency vehicle access, support local businesses and tourism, and improve reliability for residents travelling to work, medical appointments and essential services.
For a growing community that has relied on a two-lane crossing for more than six decades, this is an encouraging step forward.
Residents can also have their say on the preferred design, with community consultation open until November 27, 2026. Have your say by following the link below:-
The new Bribie Island Bridge is more than just another road project. It's an investment in safety, accessibility and the long-term future of our community.
And for Bribie Island residents, the prospect of a modern four-lane connection is certainly something worth looking forward to.
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