New Mandurah traffic bridge to retain Mandurah Bridge name

The bridge has been a local icon since it opened in 1953.

But with the new bridge due to open later this year, there have been discussions over whether a new name would engage the community and connect people to the new bridge.

Many people have regularly visited the new bridge, taken photos and engaged in the construction process.

Main Roads WA views the new bridge as a replacement rather than a new bridge and sees the naming as a job for the council.

Councillors were divided over the issue.

Councillor Peter Rogers thought it was a perfect time for the council to trust in and empower the community to name the bridge.

He said a huge opportunity would be missed to connect with residents and invest in Mandurah’s new identity.

Cr Fred Riebeling said the council should seek the community’s opinion.

“Not much thought went into this and I am sure there are suitable names out there,’’ he said.

“The bridge is called what it should always be called,’’ Cr Dave Schumacher said.

“There are more important things to do than spend money renaming it.”

At the opening later this year, the community will be invited for a community walk across the bridge before any traffic crossing.