Pedestrian access to the Australian landmark is currently only via 61 steps on Broughton Street at Kirribilli and 64 steps at Cumberland Street in The Rocks. The lifts could be the difference between people experiencing the bridge first-hand or only from a distance, said New South Wales (NSW) legislative assembly member Felicity Wilson.
The NSW government fast-tracked US$4 million last financial year to finalise project planning and ensure that the bridge is more accessible for people with a disability, who use prams or who have difficulty climbing stairs. “With more than 3,000 pedestrians making their way across the bridge each day, the NSW government is investing in improvements so that the bridge is open for everyone,” said minister for roads, maritime and freight Melinda Pavey. She added: “The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the Australia’s most well-known heritage structures and we have a design that is both functional and considerate of the heritage of this national icon.”
