Cyclists and pedestrians across Seabrook and Altona Meadows are enjoying new access between their two suburbs, with the installation of an extraordinary, first-of-its-kind 95m long, 3m wide footbridge in Hobsons Bay.
Designed with the local environment front of mind, the footbridge accounts for natural flooding in the area and, importantly, will maintain complete pedestrian and cyclist access, even during times of high rainfall.
The Lan Avenue footbridge is the final piece of the puzzle in connecting the four stages of the recently upgraded Skeleton Creek Shared Trail, is an important north-south nexus for the Hobsons Bay Coastal Trail and gives the local community a much anticipated connection between Seabrook and Altona Meadows.
While the preparation works were extensive, the bridge itself was completed in just 10 days, with the materials and components for the engineering marvel pre-made off site and then lifted and installed by crane at a remarkable rate of five minutes per truss.
Sustainability has also been a key aspect of the project with the decking constructed using recyclable materials. Materials from the old footbridge will also be recycled once full removed.
As noted by Wetlands Ward Councillor Diana Grima
“Coming into the warmer months, it’s so special to be able to get out and enjoy a walk or bike ride through our beautiful trails of Hobsons Bay. I know the community has been eager for this bridge to be upgraded. The new and improved bridge is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams and provides fantastic views across Skeleton Creek.”
As noted by Wetlands Ward Councillor Matt Tyler
“Many Seabrook and Altona Meadows residents have advocated for the Lan Avenue bridge to be improved to avoid flooding – this project reflects their passion for improving our community. This bridge is another important step in building a Hobsons Bay shared trail network that all members of our community can enjoy all year round.”
