Construction works have commenced on a multi-million-dollar project to electrify and modernise the Gawler Rail Line in South Australia.
The Gawler Rail Line is Adelaide’s most heavily used rail line, carrying around 21,000 of the approximately 60,000 train commuters on an average weekday.
Once operational there will be 15 electric trains servicing the line, with an increase in capacity during peak periods of around 15 per cent.
The project is expected to support approximately 250 full-time equivalent jobs a year over the life of the project, with completion anticipated in 2021.
The electrification has been jointly funded, with the Federal and SA Governments contributing $220 million each. The SA Government is also contributing a further $175 million to purchase additional electric trains.
The works involve electrification of the Gawler rail line from the Adelaide Railway Station to Gawler Central Railway Station, including the Dry Creek Rail Car Depot and Salisbury Siding, delivering an electrified network through Adelaide from Gawler to Seaford.
Work will commence with the installation of a Common Services Trench to accommodate the new signalling system, followed by construction of the concrete footings to support the overhead wiring masts.
The project will also provide pedestrian level crossing enhancements and the replacement of the signalling system, which is a great result for the community.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, said the project aimed to improve public transport to deliver faster, safer, more reliable and comfortable services for the people of South Australia, whilst promoting economic growth throughout its construction.
“An electrified Gawler line with clean and green high-performance trains will deliver an improved commuter experience, with better reliability and safety,” Mr McCormack said.
South Australian Premier, Steven Marshall, said this project formed part of the SA Government’s $11.9 billion pipeline of infrastructure works over the next four years.
“Importantly, this project will support job growth and deliver better services for the people of the Northern suburbs,” Mr Marshall said.
SA Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government, Stephan Knoll, said the SA Government was building a better public transport network to deliver better services and drive patronage growth.
“Once complete, the electrified line will provide a more modern, environmentally friendly and efficient train service that will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take public transport,” Mr Knoll said.
“This additional capacity will also support a host of housing, commercial and business developments underway or touted to begin in and around our northern suburbs.”
For more information on the project visit https://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/grep
