The WA government has expanded its level crossing removal program to as many as six crossings on the Armadale line, in addition to the Denny Avenue crossing slated for removal later this year.
The state on September 11 released tenders for teams to investigate the removal of up to six crossings, after preliminary planning identified the potential for a widening of scope for the crossing removal program.
Initially the scope of the first phase of level crossings under the government’s Metronet urban rail renewal initiative was for just three to be removed: Denny Avenue in Kelmscott (where work will begin later this year), Wharf Street in Queens Park, and Oats Street in Carlisle.
However, the state says its own planning process indicated there was real potential for a larger program.
Subsequently, the work will be split into two packages: the first dealing with level crossings at Mint Street, Oats Street and Welshpool Road; the second dealing with Hamilton Street, Wharf Street and William Street.
The tenders released this week are for parties who can conduct economic analysis and prepare business cases for the additional crossings.
“This call for tenders represents a major milestone for improving safety and traffic flow along the Armadale line,” transport minister Rita Saffioti said.
“We are now investigating the removal of even more crossings as part of this project – with motorists, pedestrians and public transport users all set to benefit from this major overhaul.”
The 2019/20 state budget committed a total of $415 million specifically towards the removal of three level crossings.
“With works set to start on the Denny Avenue Level Crossing Removal this year, it is an exciting time for improving safety and connectivity along the Armadale Line,” Saffioti said.