New suspension bridge reunites Casino community
A new suspension bridge reconnecting the Casino CBD to its main sporting fields and riverside parks is opening today, replacing an iconic community landmark damaged in the 2022 floods.
The $3.5 million bridge for pedestrians and cyclists is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The project was funded under the Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package, which is part of the DRFA-funded 2022 Community Assets Program.
The new bridge was delivered by the Richmond Valley Council and will form the centrepiece of a new riverside precinct, integrating the Casino CBD, Queen Elizabeth Park’s sporting facilities, river walks and open spaces.
Reaching higher above the Richmond River, the bridge has been built to withstand Casino’s heavy seasonal river flows which have frequently seen the town’s existing footbridge damaged and often rendered impassable in past years.
It will provide a safe year-round connection link for South Casino residents to walk, jog and cycle across the Richmond River, bringing the community closer together.
The new connection is viewed as a catalyst for the reimagining of the Casino CBD, shaping a vibrant and welcoming town centre, making its streets more attractive, walkable and better connected, allowing residents and visitors alike to celebrate the town centre’s Art Deco character and heritage charm.
The span between the two towers on opposite banks of the river is 55 metres; the overall length including the bridge and raised approaches is 160 metres.
At the highest point, the bridge deck is 19 metres above the Richmond River below.
Outdoor structure specialist FORGE delivered the project.
The bridge opening starts at 9am on Saturday, June 27 at the corner of Barker and Hickey streets and a free barbecue at Cassino Art Gallery will be held after the ceremony.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:
“This new suspension bridge is more resilient to future flooding events and re-establishes a vital community connection to the Casino CBD.
“The Albanese Government is working alongside the NSW Government and Richmond Valley Council to help the region build back better following the devastating 2022 floods.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin:
“This spectacular new suspension bridge is a great example of what it means to build back better.
“By improving access between the Casino CBD and our beautiful parks, we’re creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people to walk, cycle and connect.
“Casino has a unique history, and this bridge will help this community to better withstand future floods, stay connected during challenging times, but, more importantly, allow residents and visitors alike to better enjoy what this town has to offer.”
Quotes attributable to Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow:
"I know many locals have been eagerly waiting for this day. The old footbridge has been part of Casino's story for generations, and I have no doubt this new bridge will create its own memories for families, sporting groups, visitors and residents for many years to come."
"This bridge is much more than a river crossing. It was identified in the Casino Place Plan as a key connection between our CBD, South Casino, sporting precincts and riverside spaces. It will play an important role in delivering the vision of the Casino CBD Masterplan by helping create a more connected and vibrant town centre."