Demolition has commenced on the major $59 million Bundamba station accessibility upgrade in Queensland, which is set to provide improved services and access for commuters.
The station has served the community since 1878 and will now undergo works to become more accessible.
A first of its kind temporary rail overpass has been built over the train tracks by the Hutchinson Builders, which will maintain cross-corridor access for the community during the construction of the upgraded station.
Demolition of platform awnings and shelters has commenced, and temporary barriers are visible, giving a first glimpse of the station’s major transformation to the public. Member for Bundamba, Lance McCallum, conducted the sod turning, marking the official beginning of works.
“This major upgrade to our local station is a huge boost to our community and with the ‘sod turned’ we can officially mark the first step in a very important journey for better accessibility and inclusivity for local train commuters,” Mr McCallum said..
“I’m proud to be able to deliver this job creating project which means better public transport services for our local community.”
The major upgrade will deliver an accessibility improved train station for customers by late 2024, making catching a train easier for everybody, but especially those using wheelchairs, pushing prams or carrying heavy luggage.
Once complete, all customers at Bundamba will be able to use a lift to the station overpass to move between the platforms, which will be fully raised to reduce the gap, making boarding a train safer and easier for all customers.
Hearing augmentation loops, tactile floor indicators, new wayfinding signage, information screens and better security through CCTV and lighting upgrades are included and customer facilities like accessible toilets, disability-compliant ticket windows, improved seating and extended platform shelters are also part of the upgrade.
To deliver the upgrade as safely and quickly as possible, customers are reminded Bundamba station will temporarily close to customers in January with full details of a replacement bus timetable being finalised.
As part of the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program by the Queensland Government, upgrades will be delivered at Bundamba, Lindum, Morningside, Buranda, Banyo, and Burpengary stations.
Three-time Paralympian long jumper, gold medalist and world record holder, Vanessa Low was given a behind the scene tour of the upgrade, and said she was impressed by the Queensland Government’s investment in accessible rail infrastructure in the lead up to 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Since my accident as a teen I have come of age watching our world become a more accessible place – but there is so much more to be done, which is why I’m so thrilled to see this incredible project up close,” Ms Low said.
“This upgrade won’t only serve those in wheelchairs or with walking aids, but it will help the elderly, parents with young children, which includes myself, or customers travelling with luggage or a bike – I can’t wait to see the finished product.
“Brisbane is soon to be on the world stage during the Olympic and Paralympic Games and I congratulate the Queensland Government for its commitment to an inclusive and accessible transport system.”
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey, said ensuring transportation is accessible to the community is a core vision for the government and the major upgrade would be Bundamba station’s biggest transformation since it was built.
“Accessibility in public transport has been a major focus of the Queensland Government and with this upgrade it won’t matter if you use a wheelchair or have suffered an injury, you will be able to catch the train to and from Bundamba station with ease,” Mr Bailey said.
“We welcome Paralympian long jumper Vanessa Low on site. Vanessa knows first-hand the challenges faced when you have different accessibility needs and we’re proud of the work underway here which will have a major impact on so many people in our community.”