BMD Constructions wins contract to build the ACT Molonglo River Bridge

Canberra’s largest ever bridge project takes a step closer to beginning major construction with the appointment of BMD Constructions as preferred builder. 

BMD Constructions has been awarded a $172.7 million design and build contract for the Molonglo River Bridge Crossing and John Gorton Drive extension project. The company will be working along with its design partners GHD, pitt&sherry and COWI to deliver the project. 

“A critical missing link for an arterial road network, the bridge will better connect the growing suburbs of Molonglo and West Belconnen to the rest of Canberra. It will also remove issues associated with the existing alignment including narrow roadway and steep gradients making the area subject to closure during flooding. 

“At BMD, we are proud of our relationship-based approach to business which sees us heavily focused on employing locally. Having been heavily engrained in the Australian Capital Territory for over 15 years, we have a local office and team, and we will engage our local supply chain to deliver this major project and promote regional growth,” BMD Constructions said in a statement. 

This vital infrastructure project will deliver a 227.5-metre-long bridge that will traverse the region’s largest river along with a 1.7-kilometre new arterial road leading to the bridge and five new intersections. 

Once completed, the project will provide access to the proposed Molonglo Group Centre from Whitlam and future northern suburbs. 

“This project isn’t just about bridging the Molonglo River, it is about constructing the lead-in roads with intersections that link the new suburb of Molonglo which will be the region’s commercial centre. 

“The new bridge will provide a reliable connection for Canberrans in both directions to the City, Belconnen, Weston Creek and Woden and pave the way for expanded rapid bus routes. 

“This is one of our city’s largest ever bridge projects, and I know the Molonglo community will be excited to see this next milestone reached and will be looking forward to construction getting underway as soon as possible,” ACT Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel said. 

Proposed alignment (source: ACT Government - City Services)

In addition to the new river crossing, the project will also support the delivery of a future light rail connection. Two new bus stops are also going to be built as well as a southbound queue jump bus lane on the northern side of the bridge to provide better access to public transport. 

Other works will include the delivery of important active travel links such as off-road shared paths and on-road cycle lanes that will encourage Canberrans to use a bike to get to their destination. 

“This is an important piece of infrastructure for the community and I’m pleased to see the process of turning it into reality coming together. 

“I know many people will appreciate the change it will make to their day and their ability to get home sooner to spend time with their families,” Federal Member for Bean David Smith MP said. 

Detailed design for the Molonglo River Bridge project is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2023, with construction to follow suit. 

The new bridge and upgraded approaches are expected to open to traffic at the end of 2025. 

This project is jointly funded by the Australian and ACT Governments on a 50:50 basis. 

“The Australian Government understands the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports growing populations, reduces congestion and improves travel times. 

“This project will provide a major economic stimulus to the Canberra region, including supporting an estimated 560 jobs during the detailed design and construction phases. 

“Projects like this are important to not only keep Canberrans employed and businesses running, but also to provide the community with better infrastructure and safer roads long into the future,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; BMD Constructions; ACT Government (1, 2, 3); Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Infrastructure Magazine; Inside Construction