Funding: $226.2 million, jointly funded by the Australian and ACT governments
Overview
The 200-metre-long Molonglo River Bridge will be the longest weathering steel bridge in Australia and the tallest road bridge in Canberra. It will be built above a one in 100-year flood of the Molonglo River.
The completion of John Gorton Drive, including the Molonglo River Bridge, will support significant land releases in Molonglo. This includes the full development of Denman Prospect, Whitlam and the Molonglo Town Centre.
Construction began in January 2024. Initial works included the realignment of the northern approach road to Coppins Crossing. The new temporary road opened in May 2024.
Significant earthworks are underway near Denman Prospect. Two permanent sediment ponds have been built as part of the environmental protections.
The bridge’s foundation and substructure are now complete. The superstructure of the bridge is being constructed.
Coppins Crossing will be retained at completion of the Molonglo River Bridge project and intended to be used for restricted maintenance access only.
The Australian and ACT governments jointly fund the project under the Commonwealth’s Infrastructure Investment Program.
Access to Namarag (Molonglo River Reserve)
Namarag (Molonglo River Reserve) is now accessed via Thancoupie Crescent, Whitlam. The former carpark and access trail from John Gorton Drive have been permanently closed.
The 70-metre walk from the new carpark emerges near the nature play space and lookout. The carpark and track are open but works will continue around the access track.
Community benefits
- Safer traffic conditions
- Roads that support a growing region
- Modern infrastructure for new neighbourhoods
- Better roads connecting Canberra.
Project features
- A 200 metre-long Molonglo River Bridge (20 metres high) and approximately 1.7 kilometres of arterial approach roads (1 kilometre to the south and the rest to the north). It will be the longest weathering steel bridge in Australia and the tallest road bridge in Canberra.
- Public transport infrastructure including two queue-jump bus lanes and planning for future light rail infrastructure.
- Off-road paths to support the active travel network and provide access to the Molonglo River Reserve.
- Integration with the Molonglo Town Centre south of the bridge. This includes a pedestrian underpass of John Gorton Drive adjacent to the Molonglo Town Centre.
- Incorporation of a services corridor, including electricity, across the Molonglo River. This will allow the full development of Molonglo and Denman Prospect.
- Two new intersections including one connecting to the Molonglo Town Centre.
- Planned habitat for native fauna such as platypus nesting sites, pink-tailed worm lizards, water birds and bats.
The Molonglo River Bridge is part of the 'family of bridges' which also includes the pedestrian bridge, Butters Bridge.
Reports and publications
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Images
Project timeline
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Community Engagement
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Under Construction
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Expected Project Completion
Late 2026