METRONET’s High Capacity Signalling (HCS) project has started its procurement process, with Expressions of Interest (EOI) open now.
Funded by both the Commonwealth and State, the HCS project will replace the rail network’s aging signalling and control systems, which are nearing the end of their asset lives – with a more modern integrated Communications-Based Train Control system.
The communications-based system will continuously send real-time train data to the Public Transport Authority control centre, which will use the data to monitor the speed and location of every train.
This will allow for a more efficient use of the existing rail network and is a vital component in future-proofing the network, allowing trains to safely run more frequently.
Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said, “The Morrison Government is continuing to fund the delivery of important infrastructure projects like METRONET, which help people to get home to their families sooner and safer, move freight more quickly between our cities, and generate jobs across the country.
“This is just the latest example of us delivering on our commitment to progress critical infrastructure projects across the country under our record $110 billion, ten year infrastructure investment pipeline, which is helping to drive Australia’s economic recovery.”
The contract for a new state-of-the-art METRONET public transport operation centre, which will be built to house the control centre and systems, was recently awarded to ADCO Construction.
The HCS project will be delivered in stages to minimise disruption to operations, with the rollout expected to be carried out over ten years.
The project will be delivered hand-in-hand with the PTA’s Radio Systems Replacement, which will upgrade Transperth’s rail radio systems, replacing the existing analogue technology with the high-tech 4G digital communications platform necessary for the upgraded systems.
Western Australian Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti, said, “Perth’s rail signalling system is nearing the end of its life and, with the network experiencing a major expansion due to METRONET, this important system needs to be replaced.
“METRONET’s High Capacity Signalling project will not only allow for future demand, it will also support more trains running more often, which is a big win for regular public transport commuters.
“I encourage contractors interested in being a part of this important project to take part in the EOI process.
“We currently have 15 METRONET projects under construction, completed, in planning or procurement.”
Suitable EOI applications will be taken through to the Request for Proposal stage where two proponents will be chosen to create a more detailed submission.
The contract to design, supply, build and maintain the HCS project is expected to be awarded mid-2023.
Federal Member for Swan Steve Irons, said, “The Morrison Government has committed $2.7 billion towards METRONET projects across WA. This major investment includes $133.8 million towards ‘Phase One’ of the High Capacity Signalling project.
“’Phase One’ of this project will replace aging assets with new advanced train control systems that will build capacity into the rail network and support hundreds of jobs during the project.”
