Molonglo River Bridge

Client: BMD

Location: Canberra, ACT

Services: Concrete Testing

Construction Sciences Units:
Canberra (Fyshwick) Laboratory

Project Description:

The Molonglo River Bridge is a key infrastructure project being delivered by BMD Group on behalf of Infrastructure Canberra, aimed at enhancing connectivity between the Molonglo Valley, West Belconnen, and the greater Canberra region. Designed to improve access and accommodate growing traffic demands, the 200-metre-long bridge will become Australia’s longest weathering steel bridge and Canberra’s tallest road bridge upon completion.

The project also includes 1.7 kilometres of newly constructed arterial roads, improving transport efficiency and safety for a rapidly expanding community. Once complete, the bridge will provide a vital connection above the one-in- 100-year flood level of the Molonglo River, ensuring long-term resilience and reliability. In addition to road upgrades, pedestrian and cycling infrastructure is being integrated, featuring twin viewing platforms, separated plank bridges, and expanded off-road paths to support active travel and enhance accessibility.

To ensure long-term durability, the bridge structure features a three-span design with a cast-in-situ substructure, reinforced concrete deck, and weathering steel elements. Environmental considerations have been central to the project, incorporating habitat preservation measures for native species, including platypus nesting sites and pinktailed worm lizards.

The Molonglo River Bridge will integrate with Canberra’s future transport network, supporting public transport infrastructure, future light rail connectivity, and long-term urban development in the Molonglo Valley.

Our Role:

Construction Sciences has been engaged by BMD Constructions to complete the concrete testing package for the project. Working from the Canberra laboratory, our team is conducting testing to ensure the quality and compliance of concrete used across all structural elements, contributing to the long-term durability and performance of the new bridge.

*Images courtesy of BMD.