Work is rapidly progressing on the preparation of the Forrestfield-Airport Link to run trains by late 2021.
Tracklaying works have already put in place four kilometres of track through the twin tunnels.
The future stations for the line are also coming into shape, with the high eaves over Airport Central Station recently installed.
Connecting the station atrium to the platform is the longest uninterrupted escalator in the southern hemisphere, with stretches to 35 metres long and 15 metres high.
To date, 5.7km of skeleton track has been put down, and 3.9km of track completed for the 8.5km line.
Australian contractor Martinus Rail will use over 2,400 tonnes of Australian-made steel in the project, where it has employed more than 100 local workers.
WA Premier Mark McGowan said the project, which connects the existing rail network at Bayswater with the eastern foothills via Perth’s airport, has already provided many opportunities for local businesses.
“The Forrestfield Airport Link construction employs hundreds of local workers and provides opportunities for local businesses and subcontractors,” he said.
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said that with major breakthroughs so far, it will not be long until commuters are using the new line.
“We’ve reached several milestones this year with the completion of tunnelling and the start of track laying,” she said.
“The stations are almost completed and it is exciting to think trains will be running on this line in late 2021.”
Martinus CEO and managing director Treaven Martinus said that with this project under their belt, Martinus will be looking to scale up for further projects.
“Currently, we have very skilled and experienced track and overhead wiring teams in WA but our vision has always been to expand the team to encompass civil and signalling capabilities,” said Martinus.
“There are many projects coming online and we are excited about what that means for us, the opportunities it provides for our teams, local businesses, and subcontractors.”
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