Transport for NSW has awarded the tender for the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge northern cycleway ramp, with a total contract cost of $38.9 million.
Arenco has been awarded the contract to build the 3m-wide ramp from the existing bridge cycleway to a new landing in Bradfield Park North and an Alfred Street pedestrian and cycleway upgrade.
Construction of the cycleway ramp will start mid-2024 and take around 18 months to complete.
The ramp will improve access to Sydney’s only cross-harbour bike route east of Iron Cove, where riders currently have to dismount and negotiate 55 steps, limiting access to families, the elderly and those who are less able to carry or push a bike or e-bike.
Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the community over the last three years during the design development process.
Street works will also be undertaken and include a new zebra crossing on Alfred Street South for pedestrians and cyclists to safely cross the street. An additional $2.5 million is also being provided for Bradfield Park improvements.
The detailed design is nearing completion and will include an Aboriginal artwork designed by Jason Wing and Maddie Gibbs, to recognise and celebrate the significance and iconic nature of this location.
Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary of Cities and Active Transport, Anna Bradley, said that Transport is delighted that construction of this critical piece of infrastructure will soon start.
“The bridge continues to evolve to meet the needs of the people of Sydney and we’re thrilled that we’re moving closer to the next iteration, a new cycleway ramp on the northern side of the bridge,” Ms Bradley said.
“The elevated linear bike ramp will make the cycleway more accessible to riders of all levels.
“What a great way to start the day – a ride across Sydney’s iconic bridge and spectacular harbour, currently an option only for people able to carry a bike up the 55 stairs!”