Sydney Light Rail Construction Enters Next Phase
The progress of the Sydney light rail construction works has entered the next phase, with the first sections of track being laid in Kensington on 12 August 2016. 60m of track was cemented into place on Anzac Parade, in the presence of Premier of New South Wales Mike Baird and Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance.
It marks the start of track-laying on the CBD and South East light rail project which will continue in multiple zones in the next months. The project is hoped to ease traffic congestion and encourage a modal shift to rail. The line will begin operating passenger services in 2019.
The 12km light rail line will connect Circular Quay and the CBD (central business district) with Randwick and Kingsford via Surry Hills and the Moore Park sporting precinct. The project is currently employing 900 pople, which will increase to 1,500 when the construction activity peaks. Nearly 15 of 31 construction zones are now live, which includes work on the tunnel beneath Anzac parade at Moore Park.
Mike Baird, Premier of New South Wales, said:
“It’s great to see another of our major public transport infrastructure projects taking shape.
“Light rail will change the way people commute through the heart of our city – we once again thank residents, businesses, commuters and motorists for their patience as construction powers ahead.”
Andrew Constance, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, said:
“We all know congestion is getting worse in Sydney and with daily trips to the city centre expected to increase by almost 25 per cent by 2031, this will help bust congestion.
“Light rail will move up to 13,500 customers in both directions between 7am and 7pm and when combined with express and local bus services, will bring increased transport capacity of up to 30 per cent in the morning peak.”
Bruce Notley-Smith, MP for Coogee, said:
“Today’s laying of light rail tracks is an historic moment for the eastern suburbs community as this long overdue transport infrastructure is finally being delivered. If we promise something we deliver it.”
