Expressions of interest are being invited for major works on the Warrnambool and Geelong line upgrade projects in Victoria.
Deputy PM Michael McCormack and Victorian transport minister Jacinta Allan said on Tuesday a multi-million-dollar contract would be awarded to design and build important aspects of the upgrade projects.
The contract will include a major upgrade to Waurn Ponds station, as well as upgrades along the Warrnambool line to enable extra services, and pave the way for VLocity trains to run on the line.
For the Geelong Line Upgrade, the contract will cover a second platform and additional track at Waurn Ponds station, allowing trains to pass each other at this point on the line, allowing more Geelong services to be extended to Waurn Ponds.
The projects are part of the Federal and Victorian Governments’ Regional Rail Revival program.
“We’re strongly encouraging business, including those in the Geelong and south west regions, to register their interest in carrying out the work,” McCormack, who is leader of the Nationals and federal minister for infrastructure, said.
“The design and construction work for the upgrades will provide a great opportunity for local contractors and suppliers to get involved, bringing wider benefits for Geelong and south west Victoria.”
Allan said the Warrnambool Line Upgrade would allow for a fifth daily return service between Warrnambool and Melbourne, and help get VLocity trains on the line.
“A new crossing loop on the line will make it easier for trains to pass each other, helping services recover more quickly from unexpected delays, and signalling upgrades will help boost reliability,” she said.
“Upgrades to level crossings along the line will make crossings safer for motorists and train passengers. Work on these is being undertaken by V/Line and is already under way.”
Planning and site investigations for the Warrnambool Line Upgrade are already underway.
Construction is scheduled to begin by late 2019, with a target completion date of late 2020.
Construction on the Geelong Line Upgrade is scheduled to begin by 2020, with a target completion date of 2021.