TASMAN BRIDGE PATH, HOBART

Together we can make the Tasman Bridge a viable cycling connection for a wide range of riders. 

#TOGETHERWECAN

 

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The problem

The Tasman Bridge path is too narrow and exposed

The Tasman Bridge is the main connection between Hobart’s eastern and western shores but because the path is too narrow, windy and difficult to pass other riders it’s a big deterrent for many people who would like to ride more often. 

  • Maintenance gantries and poles stick into the narrow path posing a risk to riders who can get handlebars caught and fall off.
  • No wind protection on the path means there is a real risk of riders being blown about and falling off their bikes.
  • The low fence between the path and traffic means rides blown off their bike or get caught on equipment are in danger of falling into traffic.

While the state government has the Tasman Bridge on its planning agenda, it’s focus seems to be on car movements rather than active transport. 

If cycling is to be a viable transport option for people living on the eastern shore we need a bridge that caters to people walking and riding. 

The solution

Build a new wider pathway on the bridge with wind protection and safe separation from traffic.

The current pathway can be widened or a new pathway built that can better cater to people riding and walking across the bridge.

Ideally, people riding would be separated from people walking because of the different speeds they travel at.

Wind protection along the pathway would make it a more comfortable, and safer ride between Hobart’s two shores. 

Creating a more attractive cycling path with viewing areas across the bridge could also be a feature for tourists visiting Hobart as the views from the top are spectacular. 

The easier we can make it for people to ride bikes or walk, the easier it is for people to make the choice to leave the car at home, which benefits everyone.

UPDATE

  • June 2022 the Tasmanian Government released concept images and undertook consultation to finalise design of the new paths.
  • The Australian Government promised $65 million in the federal budget in October 2020 to strengthen the Tasman Bridge and add wider active transport paths, which has been matched by the Tasmanian Government in its November 2020 budget.
  • The June 2019 session of budget estimates revealed that $14 million has been budgeted to improve the Tasman Bridge’s pathway and designs were due to go to the minister in November but there is no deadline for when plans are released or works to occur. 
  • The state government called for ideas for the road corridor between Hobart and Sorrell, which includes the Tasman Bridge at the end of 2018.
  • A 2016 Coroner’s Report recommended structural changes to the bridge that would better prevent people from committing suicide. 

Take action

Collective action makes a difference. Join the campaign – together we can improve the Tasman Bridge’s path for riders.

Contact the Minister

Email Infrastructure Minister Michael Ferguson to let him know the upgrade of the bridge’s paths is important to you and needs to happen as quickly as possible.

Email the Minister

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