Cam River Bridge Project complete

The Cam River Bridge project has been completed following a final inspection and the switching-on of traffic signals at the intersection of the Bass and Murchison Highways, on Tasmania’s north-west coast.

Activation of the new signals at the intersection on Tuesday, 4 June 2024 was the final component of the $20 million project, with all speed limits now returned to normal.

Traffic was moved on to the bridge in the new year while the demolition of the old bridge and landscaping was completed during April and May.

Replacing the Cam River Bridge has been a key project of the Bass Highway – Cooee to Wynyard Upgrades, which is a $50 million program of works jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian governments.

The Australian Government is committing $40 million, while the Tasmanian Government is committing $10 million to the project.  

The new bridge has been designed to better withstand flooding from a future expected increase in severe weather events associated with climate change.

The bridge is higher than the one it has replaced. It is solidly founded on 22 concrete piles that range in depth from 11 metres near the riverside to 30 metres in the deepest part of the river, and are set 2 metres into rock below the river. 

The bridge has wider lanes, wider shoulders and a pedestrian pathway that will provide more room for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, and will also make it easier to keep traffic moving in the event of a crash or vehicle breakdown on the bridge.

We thank the public for their patience and understanding during construction of this major project.

For further information visit: www.transport.tas.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

"This new bridge is made possible with the funding partnership between the Australian and Tasmanian governments – improving safety and efficiency for traffic while future proofing this vital local link for flood and adverse weather events.

"Having the newly constructed bridge open to traffic means motorists as well as pedestrians and cyclists, can experience the benefits of this major upgrade at the intersection of the Bass and Murchison Highways.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Michael Ferguson:

“The State Government is proud to have delivered this project in partnership with the Australian Government.

“Importantly, the new signals will prioritise traffic flow on the Bass Highway, while providing safer opportunities for vehicles to enter the highway from the Murchison Highway. 

“Overall the new bridge is much stronger than the previous one. As a result, the new bridge will better withstand future severe weather events, in turn ensuring a safe connection across the Cam River for all road users.”

Quotes attributable to Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart:

“The completion of this project ensures this upgraded bridge will support the local economy of the north-west coast of Tasmania by providing improved road safety and more efficient transport access for both vehicles and pedestrians.

“The Australian Government is proud to be partnering with the Tasmanian Government in this project, which has brought a long-needed essential bridge upgrade to the island state’s north-west coast.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Braddon Roger Jaensch:

“The Tasmanian Government has committed to a second crossing of the Cam River subject to a successful feasibility study and Australian Government funding support.

“A feasibility study is assessing a range of options for a potential second bridge, including a new connection between the local road network, a duplication of the bridge at the Bass Highway, and a new bridge as part of a potential bypass for the Bass Highway through this area.”