Regional road users are set to benefit from a major transport milestone, with the new Mandurah Estuary Bridge opening to westbound traffic from tomorrow.
The duplication marks a significant step forward in easing congestion and improving connectivity across one of Western Australia’s fastest-growing regions.
The $148.8 million Mandurah Estuary Bridge Duplication Project, jointly funded by the WA and federal governments, delivers a new two-lane bridge on the south side of the existing crossing, creating a permanent westbound route for vehicles travelling toward Erskine, Halls Head, and neighbouring suburbs.
The existing bridge, currently carrying more than 33,000 vehicles each day, will temporarily maintain eastbound traffic in a single lane while crews complete resurfacing and essential maintenance.
Dual eastbound lanes are expected to open in early March, with full project completion on track for the end of March.
Premier Roger Cook said the new bridge represented a milestone achievement for regional infrastructure and the community’s quality of life.
“I want all Western Australians to have a high quality of life no matter where they live,” said Cook.
“That means delivering quality infrastructure throughout regional WA by improving our road networks and delivering world-class transport options.”
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the project was a strong example of collaboration.
King said: “By doubling the capacity of this crossing and providing an accessible shared path for pedestrians and cyclists, we are making this important route much safer for the more than 33,000 people who use this bridge every single day.”
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the early opening would provide immediate benefits for commuters.
“Opening the new Mandurah Estuary Bridge to traffic is a huge moment for the people of Mandurah and Dawesville, it’ll really start to make a difference to the daily commute.
“Our government is proud to be delivering quality infrastructure projects like this right across WA to reduce congestion and support future growth.
“Importantly, this project will significantly improve travel times for locals and boost safety for the thousands of people using this bridge every day.
The duplication also includes a suite of improvements for pedestrians and cyclists — a new four-metre-wide shared path under the bridge, an accessible fishing platform, upgraded pathways under the existing structure, and vibrant feature lighting.
More than three kilometres of noise and amenity walls, as well as cultural yarning circles, are also being constructed on both foreshores.
WA Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said the project was an important step in supporting future growth.
“This project not only addresses current transport needs by easing congestion and improving safety, but also puts Mandurah and its surrounds in a great position for future growth,” said Dawson.
With around 500 jobs created during construction, the project’s economic ripple effects have been felt across the Peel region. Peel Minister Jessica Stojkovski said:
The project continues to draw strong support from local representatives, including Senator for Western Australia Ellie Whiteaker, Mandurah MLA Rhys Williams, and Dawesville MLA Lisa Munday, all of whom praised the bridge’s contribution to safety, connectivity, and community amenity.
