Major bridge launch underway over Mitchell Freeway

• Two major bridges are being launched over the Mitchell Freeway
• Bridges are being constructed as part of the Stephenson Avenue Extension project
• Innovative construction method means access will be maintained on Mitchell Freeway
• Construction of the two bridges expected to take around six months

Commuters on the Mitchell Freeway will notice a big change in the coming months, with two new bridges being constructed over the freeway as part of the Stephenson Avenue Extension and Stirling Bus Interchange projects.

The two bridges are being constructed to support the new Stephenson Avenue Interchange and the Stirling Station Bus Interchange.

The project team will employ a unique construction method, which will see the bridges progressively built and "launched" from one side of the freeway to the other.

The advanced construction technique, selected for its benefits in maintaining access to the Mitchell Freeway and train services, will showcase an innovative approach to infrastructure development in Western Australia.

The technique uses casting beds, where reinforced concrete bridge sections are poured and cured, before being "launched" into place over live traffic conditions. Permanent and temporary piers have also been constructed on the freeway, with vehicles shifted onto a temporary alignment while the works take place.

In addition, a temporary bus entrance has been constructed, to ensure buses continue to run as normal, during the works.

The entire bridge construction process is expected to take around six months to complete.

The Stephenson Avenue Extension project is now more than 40 per cent complete.

Phase one of the project saw Stephenson Avenue extended from Scarborough Beach Road to Howe Street, including two new signalised intersections. 

Phase two of the project will see Stephenson Avenue extended from Howe Street to the Mitchell Freeway including:

• Stephenson Avenue grade separated interchange at Mitchell Freeway, including a new bridge over the freeway and train line;
• new road connecting Sarich Court to Cedric Street on the west side of the freeway, including a new bridge for Stephenson Avenue;
• new shared path on the east side of Mitchell Freeway from Telford Crescent to Civic Place, including an underpass under Stephenson Avenue;
• new shared paths along Stephenson Avenue and connections to the new path along the freeway;
• modifications to Mitchell Freeway and Cedric Street interchange, removing the southbound off and on-ramps and northbound off-ramp;
• new access to Stirling Station car park; and
• upgrade Stirling Bus Interchange from an 18-stand to 30-stand facility.

The project represents an important investment into local road, public transport and cycling and walking infrastructure, and will change the way people access the area, supporting economic growth and local jobs.

The project has also been an important driver of jobs with more than 200 local businesses engaged to date.  

The Stephenson Avenue Extension and Stirling Bus Interchange projects are jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments.

Quotes attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"People driving along the Mitchell Freeway have probably noticed the significant amount of work happening along this section, but these bridge launches will take things to the next level.

"Over the next six months, people will see these bridges gradually emerging over the Mitchell Freeway, but the construction method we're using means that access for road users and train commuters will be maintained.

"This Stephenson Avenue Extension project is transformational for this part of our city, and will make a big difference to the way people commute and get around.

"We are completely changing the way local residents and visitors will access this area, while creating more opportunity, by opening up undeveloped land near the freeway and Stirling Station."

Quotes attributed to Balcatta MLA David Michael:

"The Stephenson Avenue Extension will enable a transformation towards the future Stirling City Centre, unlocking development in the area.

"This future development area is well connected for pedestrians, cycling and public transport options in addition to the road upgrades."

Quotes attributed to Scarborough MLA Stuart Aubrey:

"Congestion through this area has long been a point of frustration for locals, which is why we're getting on with the job of improving things.

"This project will enhance the way visitors and locals commute through the area, and also plug a critical gap on our shared path network along the Mitchell Freeway.

"We'll see new opportunities for housing development unlocked, in a prime location alongside the Stirling bus interchange and train station."