What's Happening
The Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges Project, a critical part of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal, has achieved significant milestones over the past year. Now the structural construction of the bridges is complete, with all 16 bridge modules installed and welded together. This new crossing connects McCallum Park, Heirisson Island and Point Fraser.
Integral to the design is the graceful, curved bridge decking, mirroring the movement of the wagyl (rainbow serpent), a koylie (boomerang) pylon symbolising fearless Whadjuk warriors such as Yagan, and two wanna (digging stick) pylons representing the Noongar women (yorga), inspired by the stories of Fanny Balbuk. These iconic new bridges will create a safer journey for 3,000 pedestrians and cyclists who currently cross the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) daily at this location.
The new bridge will open later this year, with ongoing works including the installation of innovative feature lighting, bridge cabling, unique artworks (check out the artwork concepts and the stories behind them), public amenities, and extensive landscaping. This will transform the area into a culturally rich and visitor-friendly destination.
Recently, members of the Matagarup Elders Group were invited to walk across the new Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges. By acknowledging the deep cultural significance and connection to the land, Traditional Owners have been engaged for the past three years throughout the planning, design and construction of this project, as we strive to ensure that together, we will deliver an iconic, culturally sensitive legacy project that all stakeholders and community members can connect to with a sense of shared ownership and immense pride.
We know the importance of increasing the tree canopy, improving biodiversity and providing habitats for animals to live and flourish near our city, Boorloo (Perth). New vegetation will include 90,000 shrubs and 690 trees across the project sites. All new trees will be native species, including peppermint, paperbark and eucalyptus varieties. Landscaping and planting in McCallum Park is well underway, which will transform the landscape.
Learn more about how we’re creating a Great Place from our Fact Sheet.