The $786 million New Bridgewater Bridge project opened to traffic in June 2025, providing improved freight and commuter travel in Hobart. The project involved replacing an ageing lift-span bridge with a four-lane highway with an 80 kilometre per hour alignment, upgraded interchanges at Bridgewater and Granton, and a shared pedestrian and cycle path. Delivered by McConnell Dowell, the project required construction across a one-kilometre-wide river with shallow mudflats, mud overlaying rock foundations, and sensitive wetlands, seagrass beds, and landscapes of Aboriginal and European heritage significance.
The Judging Panel shortlisted the project for the contractor’s successful delivery of the project and its effectiveness during the planning phase, being delivered through an Early Contractor Involvement contract. The Panel commended McConnell Dowell for overcoming complex geotechnical, environmental and heritage challenges, and for delivering the project on time and on budget.