Story Bridge to Close for Three Weeks as Brisbane Undertakes Major Maintenance Works

Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge will close to traffic for three weeks over the New Year period as the city undertakes a major maintenance program designed to preserve one of Queensland’s most recognisable landmarks.

According to Brisbane City Council, the bridge is scheduled to be closed from December 27, 2026, to January 18, 2027, allowing crews to carry out essential repairs and upgrades on the structure.

The planned works include resurfacing sections of the bridge’s northern and southern approaches, as well as undertaking structural deck maintenance and waterproofing to help extend the lifespan of the 85-year-old crossing.

The Story Bridge is one of Brisbane’s busiest transport routes, carrying up to 100,000 vehicles each day, making the temporary closure one of the city’s most significant traffic disruptions in recent years.

Councillor Ryan Murphy said the project forms part of the council’s $110 million Operation Smooth program, which focuses on improving road conditions and maintaining key transport infrastructure across Brisbane.Story Bridge to Close for Three Weeks as Brisbane Undertakes Major Maintenance Works

According to Brisbane City Council, the bridge is scheduled to be closed from December 27, 2026, to January 18, 2027, allowing crews to carry out essential repairs and upgrades on the structure.

Murphy said motorists would likely have noticed deterioration in the road surface leading onto the bridge from both directions.

“Brisbane residents who have driven over the approaches from the northern and southern side of the Story Bridge recently would have noticed it’s getting a little bit bumpy,” he said.

He added that while the summer maintenance work would be challenging, it was necessary to protect the long-term future of the bridge.

Council officials said the closure period was selected to coincide with the summer holiday season, when traffic volumes are typically lower due to many residents being away.

During the shutdown, motorists will be directed to alternative crossings, including:

Captain Cook Bridge
Go Between Bridge
Clem7 Tunnel
Gateway Bridge
William Jolly Bridge

The maintenance project comes amid ongoing discussions about how to fund the future restoration of the historic bridge.

Earlier assessments by an independent committee found that without a full restoration program, the Story Bridge may not be able to continue carrying vehicle traffic within the next two decades. The committee estimated that the cost of a complete restoration would be beyond the financial capacity of Brisbane City Council alone.

Among the funding options previously suggested were contributions from local, state and federal governments, corporate sponsorship arrangements, a dedicated rates levy, or the possible reintroduction of a toll similar to that used on Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Brisbane City Council has previously stated that a toll or levy would only be considered as a last resort, with discussions continuing about long-term funding arrangements for the landmark structure.

For now, city officials are urging residents and commuters to plan ahead for the three-week closure and use alternative routes while maintenance crews complete the essential works.

FB Note: This article contains information about planned infrastructure works. Motorists should check official Brisbane City Council updates closer to the closure period for traffic management details and alternative travel arrangements.