The new Nowra Bridge is set to open to traffic on Monday, 27 February 2023 with final works underway ahead of the first vehicles travelling across the state-of-the-art structure.
The project will deliver a four-lane bridge on the Princes Highway over the Shoalhaven River at Nowra.
The opening of the bridge will create a safer road for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and will contribute to improved traffic flows and a reduction in congestion on the Princes Highway.
The traffic switch onto the new bridge will involve all five existing lanes of the Princes Highway being gradually shifted west onto the new bridge by the early hours of Monday morning.
This temporary arrangement will be in place until later this year in preparation for the final configuration of the Princes Highway.
The $342 million Nowra Bridge Project includes planning and construction funding. The Australian and NSW governments jointly funded the $310 million construction phase on a 50:50 basis.
The entire project is on track to be completed by 2024, weather permitting.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Australian Government remains committed to working collaboratively with the NSW Government on key infrastructure projects on the South Coast.
“Last month we announced an additional $65 million to allow for robust planning and preparatory works for the Nowra Bypass Planning Project to consider the merits of a bypass of Nowra.
“The opening of the new Nowra Bridge complements our vision to reduce congestion and create a safer and smoother journey for residents and visitors alike.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips:
“This is a historic moment for the Shoalhaven region as we open a brand-new bridge and retire the original 1881 bridge so it can take on a new life as a pedestrian and cyclist bridge.
“Our continued investment in the Nowra Bridge project shows the Australian Government is serious about delivering for South Coast communities so motorists get to their destination faster and safer.”
