Section of Riverwalk next to Dexus development reopens after years of construction
A significant section of Brisbane’s Riverwalk has reopened; This marks a turning point for the city and the revitalization of the flood-prone CBD area.
The ribbon was cut on Tuesday by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Dexus representatives for the official opening of the Riverwalk, following a three-year, $42 million transformation against the backdrop of the Story Bridge.
The 256-metre stretch from Charlotte Street to Alice Street creates a continuous walking and cycling route from the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves to the Botanical Gardens.
“Just like you can’t imagine Brisbane without CityCats and the Story Bridge, you can’t imagine Brisbane without the Riverwalk,” Schrinner said.
He said the council had contributed $22 million to the project to upgrade it from a narrow section of road to a wide flood-resistant walkway, but the “lion’s share” had come from Dexus.
“Once this whole area is operational, I have no doubt there will be tourists flocking in 2032. This is about making sure Brisbane embraces its river,” Schrinner said.
He said taxpayers were “getting their money’s worth” thanks to the funding partnership with Dexus and that paying for the project in full would cost the council tens of millions of dollars.
This section has been ring-fenced since 2023 and work is underway on the multi-billion-dollar Waterfront Brisbane development, which will boast retail tenants.
The entire project was planned to open in 2027, but was postponed last year due to construction complexities and bad weather.
“For [Dexus] To continue to move forward and achieve this great result despite the challenges is a great result,” Schrinner said.
“I’m more interested in what he’s doing for the community rather than whether he’s there or not. [were] There were a few delays.
“For generations to come, people will forget the few extra months and remember the wonderful result achieved.”
Locals Wayne and Cathy Jeffries were among the first pedestrians to walk the new road.
“I think they had to do something to bring it back after the flood and, looking ahead, we’ve got the Olympic Games coming up so you’ve got to make it look impressive for all the overseas guests,” Wayne said.
“It’s great to see the progress of Brisbane, the new Kangaroo Point Bridge and the beautiful new restaurants in the city, Queen’s Wharf… it’s the place to be,” Cathy added.
The walkway was rebuilt with new footpaths and railings, and three local street artists painted a Brisbane-themed mural at the start of the walkway in three days.
“This is a great water theme that suits a river city and a city centered around Moreton Bay,” Schrinner said.
Waterfront Brisbane will eventually consist of two new office towers, shops, restaurants and public space.
The facility, whose construction cost is estimated to be 2.5 billion dollars in total, is expected to be ready in late 2028.
with William Davis
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