For more than 50 years, Gladesville Bridge has formed a vital link for motorists travelling to and from the city across Parramatta River.
Now the iconic concrete arch, which carries more than 81,000 vehicles daily, has joined its famous big brother, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as an official Sydney icon.
In December, Gladesville Bridge became only the fourth infrastructure project in Australia to receive the highest engineering award available – official recognition from the American Society of Civil Engineers as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark
“The Gladesville Bridge has officially joined the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Western Australian Goldfields water supply project and the Snowy Mountains Scheme as being recognised for engineering excellence in this country,” a Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said in a statement.
“The American Society of Civil Engineers has presented a plaque to the NSW Government confirming the Gladesville Bridge’s place among this country’s finest engineering achievements.
The bridge’s designer, Tony Gee, was present at a ceremony recognising the structure’s newfound status.
“Tony was working for G. Maunsell and Partners in London at the time and the bridge was built by a partnership of United Kingdom firm Reed and Mallik and Australian firm Stuart Brothers,” said the spokesperson.
Mr. Gee, who has travelled to Australia from his home in Florida to celebrate his design honour, said he was proud of his achievement.
“Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and well known as home to two of the modern engineering wonders of the world in the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House,” the 82-year-old said.
“There is no doubt in my mind Gladesville ranks alongside these two iconic structures but for some reason it has always been overshadowed by them and has never received the recognition it deserved.”