TasRail has released three requests for tender for significant track and level crossing upgrades, forming part of the $119.6 million Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program jointly funded by the state government and the Commonwealth.
The tender packages feature track works on the Western, Fingal, Bell Bay, and Melba lines, and level crossing upgrades at Foster Street in Railton, and Westbury Place in Deloraine.
TasRail CEO Damien White said the investment program was focusing on important developments that would enhance reliability and competitiveness of freight services on the Tasmanian rail network.
“The Bell Bay track works will improve the reliability of the intermodal and log traffic to and from George Town, while the Melba Line works will focus on the removal of maintenance-intensive mechanical rail joints as well as new line,” Mr White said.
“New track work through level crossings reduces ongoing maintenance, improves the facility for pedestrians and road vehicles and enhances track quality for TasRail’s rollingstock.”
The state government’s Buy Local policy means that tenderers will be required to demonstrate support for Tasmanian industry and business.
Track works on the Western, Fingal and Bell Bay lines are expected to begin in December 2017.
The Melba Line welding and track works and the level crossing upgrades at Railton and Deloraine planned to start in January 2018.
The requests for the tender close in late November.