Work to transform the historic Nowra Bridge into a dedicated pedestrian and cycling path is now underway thanks to a $20 million investment from the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments.

The transformation will be carried out in four stages over the next three years, with the first stage to include:

• truss repairs
• repairing the end truss lattices
• repairs to the concrete bridge deck
• removal of the old handrail connections
• and replacement of rosette style diagonal bracing washers.

More than 140-years-old, the bridge is an icon of the community and work to transform it has been informed by close consultation with the community over the past decade.

Due the age of the bridge, the work required to restore it is very detailed and labour intensive.

While this significant work will take time, once complete, it will be a long-term asset to the region that the community can enjoy as an active, healthy transport option.

The first stage of work starting Monday 11 November is expected to take around six months, weather permitting.  Work will be carried out between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.

Further details about future stages of work will be shared with the community as work progresses, however, these will involve removal of the cantilevered footpath, prioritised repainting and installation of lighting.

For the safety of the community, the historic Nowra Bridge will remain closed with street lighting switched off while work is carried out. Temporary fencing, signage, and security cameras will be in place to discourage pedestrians from accessing the bridge.

Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said she was thrilled to see work commence on the project.

“This project has been talked about for years and it’s taken the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments to finally get it done,” Mrs Phillips said.

“I am so excited to see this work begin and look forward to seeing how our iconic old Nowra Bridge is transformed into a wonderful active transport asset we can all enjoy.”

State Member for South Coast Liza Butler said the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments were delighted to be investing in the “incredible transformation project the community will benefit greatly from”.

“The old bridge has worked hard over the years and it’s now in need of a lot of tender love and care to bring it back to its former glory,” she added.

NSW Labor’s Kiama spokesperson Dr Sarah Kaine MLC said she was pleased to see Transport for NSW delivering the project.

“This is such an exciting milestone for the community and I want to thank the many residents who have advocated over many years for this repair and revitalisation work to happen,” she said.

The new Nowra Bridge was opened to traffic in February 2023 and major work on the project was completed in November 2023.

Finishing work carried out in the last six months included building footpaths, finalising landscaping, removing excess spoil from the Bolong Road stockpile site, and removing and replacing contaminated mulch from several locations across the project.

Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is thrilled to see work about to commence on the Old Nowra Bridge transformation.

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Katrina Condie: 0437 662 967