The Go Between Bridge officially opened in Brisbane on 5 July 2010.
Completion of the 300m bridge marks the end of an aggressive design and construction schedule intended to minimise the impact of construction on the community.
The three-span, two-pier, concrete balanced cantilever bridge is a key component of Brisbane City Council’s long-term transport plans. It offers relief to existing bridge crossings and improves accessibility for motorists, public transport providers, pedestrians and cyclists.
As independent verifier for the project, Arup was responsible for ensuring the Hale Street Link Alliance met Brisbane City Council’s design, construction and commissioning obligations throughout the delivery of the bridge and related infrastructure works. This role required specialist input from Arup’s large bridge design teams in Hong Kong and the UK, who worked closely with Arup’s local delivery team based in Brisbane.
According to Arup Project Manager, Marijke Coenders, Arup played a vital role in the design process offering innovative and technically-excellent solutions in collaboration with the Alliance. “This complex project represents a significant investment in Brisbane’s road network so we have taken every step to ensure its delivery to the highest standard” says Marijke.
Combined, the inner-city peak hour traffic volumes and the sheer size and scope of the project presented significant challenges. The Hale Street Link Alliance went to great lengths to minimise the impact of construction on local businesses and traffic flows, working around the clock to deliver an exceptional product ahead of schedule.
“Our working hours on the Go Between Bridge provided a unique working environment for the project team” Marijke explains. “At night the city night lights provided a beautiful back drop to concreting works and through the early morning fog we could watch the rowers and the CityCat’s gliding across the river under the bridge.”
As well as the main bridge structure, the project also features a two-lane viaduct on Coronation Drive over the Hale Street intersection on the north side; significant road works including at-grade signalised intersections on both sides of the river; dedicated pedestrian and cycle ways including full equitable access; toll collection systems and equipment; landscaping works and environmental works; and improvements and alterations to utility services.