Federal Funds Secured for Brisbane Story Bridge Restoration

The iconic Story Bridge in Brisbane is set to receive much-needed restoration and maintenance funding, with the federal government committing $2.25 million to help scope the extensive work required. The funding is part of a broader $200 million investment in southeast Queensland’s infrastructure upgrades, aimed at improving transport networks and road safety.

Federal Government Steps In

The Albanese government’s pledge to assist in maintaining one of Brisbane’s most recognized landmarks was announced as part of a broader infrastructure funding package. Infrastructure Minister Catherine King emphasized the importance of preserving the Story Bridge, calling it “one of the most iconic bridges in the country.” The funding will be used to assess the full scope of restoration work needed to ensure the bridge remains safe and structurally sound for decades to come.

“We recognize the Story Bridge’s significance, not only for Brisbane’s transport network but also as a key piece of Australian heritage,” King stated. “This funding is an important step in addressing its long-term maintenance and repair needs.”

Years of Deterioration

Brisbane City Council has long been aware of the bridge’s aging structure and the challenges that come with maintaining an 84-year-old steel bridge exposed to Queensland’s harsh climate. Regular maintenance efforts have revealed extensive rust and corrosion due to salt air exposure, necessitating urgent repairs beyond routine upkeep.

The council initially requested $4.5 million in federal assistance to conduct a comprehensive business case for the bridge’s restoration. While the federal government has allocated a portion of the requested amount, discussions continue regarding additional funding and state government contributions.

Political Back-and-Forth

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has welcomed the federal funding but reiterated that further investment from the state government is crucial. “We’ve been a steward of the Story Bridge since 1947, but this level of work is beyond the means of local government alone,” Schrinner said.

The Queensland state government has yet to commit additional funds, and political opponents have criticized the timing of the council’s request, accusing it of mismanagement. Opposition leader Jared Cassidy argued that the council should have acted sooner, given that the bridge has been identified as an at-risk structure since 2016.

“This plea to the federal government should have come much earlier,” Cassidy said. “They’ve known about these structural concerns for years and failed to prioritize the necessary work.”

The Next Steps

With the initial funding secured, the Brisbane City Council will move forward with detailed planning and structural assessments. This process will determine the full extent of repairs required, including potential steel plate and rivet replacements, repainting, and protective measures against future corrosion.

The Story Bridge carries more than 100,000 vehicles daily, with over 40 percent of those originating from outside Brisbane. Ensuring its structural integrity is not only essential for Brisbane residents but also for the greater southeast Queensland region.

The federal government’s contribution is a step in the right direction, but further collaboration between local, state, and federal authorities will be necessary to ensure the long-term preservation of Brisbane’s most iconic bridge.

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