Fremantle’s long-awaited new traffic bridge will open to the public on November 1, bringing an early end to months of commuter disruption and restoring a critical link to the port city ahead of the busy summer trading period.

The State Government has announced a community celebration to mark the opening of the new Swan River crossing, with residents among the first to walk across the bridge before it opens to traffic later that evening.

The milestone comes at least six months ahead of the original schedule, after the old bridge closed on February 1 and motorists were diverted via Stirling Bridge.

The closure was initially expected to last up to 12 months, with the replacement bridge originally earmarked to open in the first half of 2027. Instead, the crossing will have been closed for just nine months.

Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister Rita Saffioti said the new bridge would relieve pressure on the surrounding road network.

“Delivering the new bridge months ahead of schedule is a massive achievement, thanks to the strong collaboration and innovation of the project team,” she said.

But the accelerated delivery has come at a significant cost.

The joint State and Federal Government project is now estimated to cost $596 million, up from the most recent estimate of $430 million and more than double the initial $280 million estimate in 2022.

Soaring material costs and design changes have contributed to the increase.

The new bridge is set to become Australia’s first extradosed bridge, combining elements of cantilever and cable-stayed construction to create a safer navigation channel for river users.

Despite its modern design, the crossing will retain a link to its past, with four rows of timber from the original 1939 bridge preserved at the northern end.

Finishing works will continue after the opening, including the installation of architectural and feature lighting designed to reflect the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the crossing.

Temporary road network changes introduced before the old bridge closed will also be removed, including access changes to and from Fremantle via Canning Highway.

For commuters and businesses that have spent months navigating detours, the new crossing will restore a vital connection just as Fremantle heads into its busiest time of year.