Story Bridge to close for three weeks over summer for major repairs
The bridge carrying 100,000 vehicles daily will shut December 27 to January 18 for repairs.
Brisbane's Story Bridge is closing for three weeks over summer. The work runs from Sunday, December 27, 2026, to Monday, January 18, 2027.
The work includes resurfacing the southern approach and parts of the northern approach. Structural deck maintenance and waterproofing are also being done.
Brisbane City Council chose these dates hoping residents would be on holidays. The repairs are part of a $110 million Operation Smooth program.
Councillor Ryan Murphy said the road surface had become noticeably bumpy. "It will be a hot, sweaty and arduous job, but it's necessary to preserve this asset," he said.
Drivers can use the Captain Cook Bridge, Go Between Bridge, Clem7, Gateway Bridge, or William Jolly Bridge as alternatives.
- Up to 100,000 vehicles
- Daily traffic
- 3 weeks (Dec 27, 2026 to Jan 18, 2027)
- Closure period
- $110 million Operation Smooth
- Total funding
- 85 years old
- Bridge age
Why it mattersThe closure will affect tens of thousands of commuters and visitors, and signals broader concerns about the 85-year-old bridge's long-term condition without major investment.
AustraliaBrisbane drivers will need to plan alternate routes during the holiday period. Council is also weighing whether a toll (like Sydney Harbour Bridge) might fund the bridge's full restoration in coming years.
Corroborated bysmh.com.au·theage.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 45 min ago
Open this story in InSnip →
