A new pedestrian and cyclist bridge honouring the memory of local student Luke Bowen has officially opened in Coffs Harbour today, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the city's long-awaited bypass.
Spanning eight lanes of traffic, the Luke Bowen Pedestrian Bridge is the first major piece of infrastructure to be completed as part of the Coffs Harbour Bypass.
This state-of-the-art pedestrian bridge replaces the older and shorter bridge of the same name, and now provides a safer, more accessible connection across the highway, including direct access to a new bus interchange being built near Kororo Public School.
The bridge stands as both a vital piece of infrastructure and a deeply meaningful tribute - a place of remembrance for Luke, and a commitment to a safer future for all members of the community.
The Coffs Harbour Bypass is a $2.2 billion project jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments.
Once complete, the bypass will remove thousands of vehicles from the city centre, improve traffic flow and significantly reduce travel times.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said:
"The 14kilometre Coffs Bypass will transform Coffs Harbour for the better, bypassing the town centre and allowing interstate traffic to flow freely. The stunning new pedestrian bridge will ensure people can move safely and easily over the new highway.
"The bridge also honours the memory of Luke Bowen, a young life lost too soon. The Coffs Harbour community has shown such strength and unity in carrying Luke's name forward and this bridge stands as a testament to that spirit."
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"For the people of Coffs Harbour, the bypass represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape their city, to reclaim their streets, reduce congestion, and create a more peaceful, accessible place to live.
"The Luke Bowen Bridge is the first step in that journey, and it sets the tone for everything that will follow.
"It is especially moving to see the community come together to honour Luke's memory in such a lasting way. It's a reminder that behind every piece of infrastructure are people, families and stories that matter.
"The bridge was installed with only a few hours of highway closure, and the older structure removed just as efficiently. This shows the outstanding coordination and care that's gone into this project."
Jeff Bowen and Vicki Banks, parents of the late Luke Bowen said:
"Our family is honoured that the new pedestrian bridge will serve as a lasting legacy to Luke.
"It is a deeply moving tribute that reflects the care and strength of the community he loved so much.
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to Transport for NSW and Kororo Public School."
