Daytime testing for Parramatta Light Rail is kicking off, marking another milestone as the system gears up for passenger services later this year.
For the first time, Parramatta workers and residents will begin to see the 45-metre trams travelling in the heart of Parramatta during off-peak times between 10am and 3pm.
The first daytime test run will see the tram journey from the stabling facility in Camellia, complete a run up to Carlingford and back, before rolling into the Parramatta CBD.
Transport Minister Jo Haylen celebrated another momentous moment in the project.
“Light rail is seeing the light of day in Western Sydney, meaning people can expect more trams to be travelling around as this next phase of testing gathers pace,” she said.
“While we know how excited the community is to start using the light rail, we need to get this right. Passengers cannot get on board until thorough testing is complete.
“This will be a major change for our west that will take some time for people to get used to. We’re going from no trams in Parramatta for 80 years, to one running every 7 minutes in the peak.”
With an experienced driver at the controls, the tram will cross a number of key traffic intersections and pass local schools on Macquarie Street, giving locals an exciting glimpse of their future public transport network.
Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 testing continues to gather pace, with more daytime testing ahead across the entire alignment to ensure the safety and reliability of the system before passenger services can commence.
Current activities include testing the full load capacities of vehicles and infrastructure, as well as testing network communications and vehicle operations.
Transport Coordinator General Howard Collins is encouraging people to come down and see the testing themselves.
“If you’re driving in and around Parramatta for the first time in a while, be aware conditions have changed – this includes the new white ‘T’ illuminated on intersection traffic light signals for light rail,” he said.
“Watch out for trams moving about in the area, be sure to stop, listen and look around before crossing the light rail tracks, and always cross at a pedestrian crossing.”
Safety is paramount and the NSW Government continues to engage closely with schools, businesses, stakeholders and the wider community to support safe behaviours around the light rail.
Project information and engagement sessions are also being held at various Western Sydney locations, providing an opportunity to share safety information and updates about the project.
Find out more about the project and its upcoming community engagement sessions at the Parramatta Light Rail website
Find out more about Parramatta Light Rail safety
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