Stronger, Faster, Safer: New Bridgewater Bridge Now Open

Since 2022, Jacobs, in collaboration with McConnell Dowell, served as lead designer for the New Bridgewater Bridge—Tasmania’s largest transport infrastructure project to date.

The new bridge replaces the 76-year-old, two-lane lift bridge over the River Derwent. As part of the National Highway network, it enhances connectivity between the Brooker and Midland highways, reducing travel times and improving safety for thousands of daily commuters.

As lead designer, Jacobs delivered detailed design services, including:

• Integration of utility services within the main bridge structure
• Flood modeling, transit planning and intelligent transport systems
• Roadway, interchange, ramp and underpass design
• Structural design of additional key elements, including the Boyer Road and Black Snake Road bridges, and multiple watercourse structures.

Our Hobart-based team led the project, supported by Jacobs’ global experts to meet both local requirements and international standards.

This milestone builds on Jacobs’ long-standing presence in Tasmania and our history of delivering critical infrastructure through our Hobart office. We’re proud to continue supporting the Department of State Growth (Tas) on projects that bring lasting benefits to local communities and the broader region.

Recognized for its innovation, sustainability and collaboration, the project has been shortlisted for the 2025 Australian Construction Achievement Award. Winners will be announced on August 6, 2025.