Perth commuters are being urged to prepare for major disruptions with the imminent shutdown of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge for a complete rebuild. The State Government has launched a new digital tool to help drivers navigate the expected chaos.
Essential Closure Sparks Traffic Planning Push
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti confirmed the bridge will close for up to 12 months from February 1, 2025, to allow construction of a new $430 million structure. The new bridge will eventually feature two traffic lanes in each direction.
"We recognise it will have an impact on the local road network and people’s travel times," Ms Saffioti said. She stated the government has been planning for this closure for over 18 months, engaging with stakeholders and the community.
A key part of the mitigation strategy is a new live traffic application. The app is designed to provide real-time updates on congestion and travel times, giving drivers forewarning of delays. The government is also rolling out smart traffic monitoring technology to manage flow.
Community Concerns Over Alternative Transport
Despite the planning, the measures have drawn criticism. Greens MP Brad Pettitt slammed the public transport solutions as insufficient for the 24,000 vehicles that use the bridge daily.
"At the moment, we’ve only literally got two extra trains running during peak," Mr Pettitt said. "That’s their solution to 24,000 vehicles a day, it’s not sufficient. This is actually really poor government planning."
His concerns were echoed in a petition, signed by more than 1600 people and backed by the Greens and Liberal MP Sandra Brewer. It called for urgent safety improvements to encourage walking and cycling as alternatives.
Calls for Safer Active Transport Routes
Cycling advocates argue that basic upgrades are needed to make alternative travel viable. Jean-Paul Horne, spokesman for the Fremantle Bicycle Users Group, highlighted current dangers on the old bridge.
"Right now, once you get up to the old bridge, there’s nowhere for you to go on a bike. You have to go back cross, go down, cross again. It’s completely dark," Mr Horne said.
He listed simple improvements like raising barriers, installing lighting, adding wayfinding signage, and refreshing lane markings with colour. These changes, he argued, are crucial for safety before, during, and after the closure.
In addition to the app, the government will distribute pocket guides to more than 40,000 residences in Fremantle, outlining alternative routes and transport options. The suite of measures aims to encourage peak-time road users to consider public transport, but the coming months will test the region's patience and planning.
