FREMANTLE’S new traffic bridge will open to the public on Sunday, November 1, with residents invited to be among the first to walk across the $596 million crossing before it opens to vehicles later that evening.
A free family-friendly festival will run from 9am to 1pm, with a sausage sizzle, activities and entertainment at a festival hub beneath the bridge on Beach Street.
Visitors will be able to access the bridge on foot from either the north or south side, giving the community its first chance to experience the new crossing before traffic returns.
• Thanks to Freo resident Joe for catching the shot of the new Fremantle Traffic Bridge as Main Roads tested its snazzy lighting.
There will be no event parking, with organisers encouraging people to walk, cycle or use public transport. Bike racks will be available, and a free shuttle bus will run between Fremantle Station and the bridge.
Transperth says shuttle buses will operate every five minutes from Fremantle Station between 8.30am and 12.30pm, with return services running until 2pm. Sunday travel is free for SmartRider and contactless payment users.
The opening comes three months ahead of schedule, after the old bridge closed in February for replacement.
The new bridge has two traffic lanes in each direction, wider pedestrian and cycling paths on both sides, and increased clearance for boats navigating the Swan River.
While the bridge will be open to traffic from the evening of November 1, finishing work will continue after the opening. This includes landscaping and work on the surrounding road network.
The bridge’s feature lighting is also still being tested and will be completed after the opening. The program is designed to reflect the cultural and spiritual significance of the river landscape, the history of river crossings and the area’s role as a gateway between the north and south banks.
Temporary traffic changes introduced during the closure will be removed, including the restrictions on east-west movements along Canning Highway at Stirling Highway. The road network changes are expected to be progressively lifted through December.
Organisers are encouraging people to register their attendance through the Main Roads WA Swan River Crossings website to help plan catering and event services.