Public transport could be the best option across Sydney harbour during January’s bridge shutdowns
December 20, 2011
Significant road maintenance work will be carried out on the Sydney Harbour Bridge in January, with resurfacing requiring the bridge to be closed to traffic in both directions for up to three weekends.
Coming up to 80 years old in March, the affectionately named ‘coat hanger’ will be closed to traffic at certain times during maintenance work, but stays open for rail, bus, taxis and cyclists.
NSW Roads Minister Duncan Gay says the work was planned for January to ensure resurfacing of the iconic structure is completed well ahead of the 80th birthday milestone.
He says traffic volumes on Sydney Harbour Bridge in January are generally lower than at other times of the year.
Traffic diversions will involve the Gladesville Bridge and Victoria Road and extensive clearways will also be in place.
Gay says the public will be encouraged to consider using public transport to get across the harbour.
During the work pedestrian and cycle paths will remain open, buses and rail services will continue to operate and emergency vehicles will be given access if required.
This is the first time the Sydney Harbour Bridge will be stripped back to the original concrete deck to carry out resurfacing and waterproofing.
An epoxy waterproofing material will be applied, in part by hand, to maximise the waterproofing process.
Gay says the end result will mean reduced road noise on the new surface, and reduced risk of corrosion and structural damage on the bridge deck.
The work will extend from Fitzroy Street in the north to Cumberland Street in the south.
To complete the work, full closure of Sydney Harbour Bridge will be up to three weekends from January 13-16 between 10pm Fridays and 5am Mondays.