Brisbane's Story Bridge: Toll Threat Looms as Restoration Costs Soar

Brisbane's Story Bridge faces a multi-million dollar restoration challenge. Brisbane City Council is actively seeking funding from state and federal governments to cover the substantial costs. However, the council has warned that if sufficient funding is not secured, they may have to resort to imposing a toll or levy on motorists using the bridge. This has sparked debate, with concerns raised about the fairness of such a measure, especially considering that a large percentage of bridge users are not Brisbane residents. "It doesn't seem fair to put a levy on city ratepayers when 42% of the users don't live here," stated Cr Adrian Schrinner, Brisbane Lord Mayor. The council is also exploring private sponsorship as a funding option. The 85-year-old bridge, built during the Great Depression, requires significant repairs and restoration to ensure its continued structural integrity and operational efficiency. The council is committed to completing the restoration by 2040 and is optimistic about securing the necessary funding to avoid imposing a toll on residents.