New pedestrian and cycle bridge to link Bli Bli and Maroochydore

Construction of a new $2.98 million dedicated pedestrian and cycle bridge across Eudlo Creek on David Low Way at Maroochydore will start next week.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government contributed $2.24 million towards the project through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants program, with Sunshine Coast Council contributing $740,000.

“The new three-metre-wide bridge will be built north of the existing road bridge, separating motorists from pedestrians and cyclists,” Mr Bailey said.

“We’re committed to investing in cycling infrastructure to make it easier and safer for more people to ride bikes across Queensland.

“This new bridge will improve pedestrian and cyclist connectivity to the Maroochydore foreshore and the Maroochydore town centre.

“The missing link will be completed in the cycle network by providing a dedicated cycle path along David Low Way from Maroochydore to Bli Bli, improving connectivity for cyclists who use this section of road daily.

“We have listened to the community and are pleased to work with council to deliver this vital piece of infrastructure to improve connectivity for locals and tourists alike.”

Division 7 Councillor Ted Hungerford said the project would provide a safe route for cyclists of all abilities.

“This new bridge will make a big difference for people cycling between Bli Bli and Maroochydore,” Cr Hungerford said.

“The new bridge will replace the current footway on the existing vehicle bridge and provide a safer crossing alternative over Eudlo Creek.

“Separating pedestrians and cyclists from the road network is a great solution that will be achieved with an innovative design using aluminium frames and composite fibre reinforced concrete decks.

“Council selected an innovative design and construction solution to minimise disruption to the existing vegetation and local environment. The bridge components will be pre-fabricated off-site and assembled into place to avoid lengthy on-site construction times and equipment.

“The design also includes decorative elements at key locations within the project site to complement the natural setting.

“This has been a long time coming and is a very important piece of infrastructure. It will greatly enhance the safety of the transport network in this area.”

Damien Jones from the Suncoast Cycling Alliance said the project would provide a missing link for cyclists that was well overdue for the community.

“It will open up both sides of the creek to people who wouldn’t usually ride due to the danger of riding on the existing vehicle bridge,” Mr Jones said.

“Both bike riders and pedestrians alike will now be able to safely cross from Bli Bli to Maroochydore.”

The new bridge is part of a $5.68 million investment by council and the Queensland Government for a cycleway between Maroochydore and Bli Bli, making sustainable travel easier for residents.