New bridge planned for Tasmania

Plans are afoot in Tasmania for a new bridge project. The New Bridgewater Bridge is expected to cost US$413.2 million (A$535 million). The Tasmanian Infrastructure Ministry has unveiled the plans for the project. Due to its cost, Federal funding will be likely to be required, although Tasmania would provide around 20% of the pricetag from its own budget. However the proposal is around $232 million less than the previous concept design put forward for the project. The new design would feature four lanes for vehicle traffic and allow a 16m clearance for shipping to pass underneath. The project is still at an early stage and the structure is not likely to open for traffic until 2023.