The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has commended the announcement made on 15 September 2014 by the ACT (Australian Capital Territory) Minister for Capital Metro, The Hon Simon Corbell MLA, stating the government’s commitment to Stage 1 of the ACT Light Rail project, with Expressions of Interest sought by 31 October 2014, at which time the business case will also be released.
The Minister made his announcement at the Capital Metro Industry Briefing held in Canberra today, at which more than 300 industry and government representatives attended. Chief Executive Officer of the ARA, Mr Bryan Nye OAM, was also at the briefing and was pleased to see such support for the project.
“Today is a clear reflection of how much interest this project has generated not only amongst the general public or politically, but that local, national and international industry is keen to learn more and hear how this project is planned to progress,” said Mr Nye.
“We were given a detailed update on progress to date, the planned public-private partnership procurement process, including risk allocations and Capital Metro’s desire to engage and collaborate closely with industry.”
“It is clear that the ACT Government has an ambitious vision for the future of Canberra, one that will unlock the potential of Northbourne Avenue through urban redevelopment and will stimulate the local economy, providing employment opportunities and better community interaction,” said Mr Nye.
A clear picture was provided for delegates, taking them visually through the planned 12 km double track from Gungahlin to the City, with 13 stops along the way and a service running every 10 minutes on weekdays and 6 minutes during peak periods. The total journey is expected to take 25 minutes end to end and commuters will be able to use the existing ‘MyWay’ smart ticketing system which will integrate with the Action Bus network. The estimated capital cost for the project is expected to be around $610 million, with a $173 million contingency.
“Canberra is Australia’s most car-dependent city. The introduction of light rail will transport Canberra into the 21st century and provide an alternative transport option for Canberrans to embrace public transport,” continued Mr Nye.
“I congratulate Capital Metro and Minister Corbell on hosting a successful event today and am hopeful for the future of this project in our Nation’s capital and the benefits it will bring to all Canberrans,” Mr Nye concluded.
(Source: ARA)
