Hawkesbury's existing Richmond Bridge will be converted into a dedicated active transport corridor for riders and pedestrians after the replacement New Richmond Bridge is constructed later this year in Stage 2 of a major project.
The bridge — and its planned replacement — crosses the Hawkesbury River northwest of Sydney, connecting Richmond and North Richmond.
The existing bridge has been a major pressure point for motor traffic in the region, carrying about 31,000 vehicles each day on a single lane in each direction.
It is a critical route during floods.
The new bridge will feature two lanes in each direction and sit around 10 metres higher than the original crossing to improve flood resilience.
Stage 2 of the Richmond Bridge project will also see Bells Line of Road widened through North Richmond, an intersection upgrade a Grose Vale Road and construction of a new bypass south of Richmond town centre.
Construction of Stage 2 is set to begin in late 2026 and finish in 2029.
Stage 1, which includes upgrades to two key roundabouts on The Driftway, at Blacktown and Londonderry roads, is currently underway and will be complete by 2027.
The $658 million project is jointly funded by the federal and state governments.
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said: “This project is incredibly important for local families and businesses who rely on this crossing every single day.
“Building the new bridge around 10 metres higher than the existing crossing will make a real difference for the Hawkesbury as that height bridge would have remained open during every major flood event since 2020.
“Converting the existing bridge into a dedicated walking and cycling connection will give it a new life for future generations to enjoy our beautiful river.”
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