Exciting News for Canberra! The first segment of track has officially been laid for the Light Rail Stage 2A, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the light rail network towards Commonwealth Park. This development comes just under a year after construction kicked off, and it’s an event that many have been eagerly anticipating.
The ACT Government celebrated this achievement by sharing images and a video showcasing the progress of the work. With this new track installation, light rail services connecting Alinga Street and Sandford Street are set to resume regular operations starting tomorrow, January 24th. However, passengers should be aware that temporary platform arrangements at the city bus interchange will remain until February 1st, so plan accordingly!
This week, construction crews worked diligently to lay new tracks at the intersection of Alinga Street and Northbourne Avenue. This effort is part of an intensive month-long construction push aimed at linking the existing network with the new 1.7-kilometre extension. Stage 2A has not only involved track laying but also necessitated various projects to relocate and enhance underground utilities along Northbourne Avenue and London Circuit.
Officials from the government have emphasized that this is a pivotal transformation for the city center since self-government was established. Their vision is to make Canberra a more connected and livable city for future generations.
Currently, the upgrade of utility services is nearing completion, and work on Northbourne Avenue is also moving towards its concluding phases. However, it will still be several months before traffic can resume on this route. Meanwhile, additional track work is scheduled for London Circuit West and Commonwealth Avenue.
This year, further developments will include the construction of light rail stops at locations such as Edinburgh Avenue, City South, and Commonwealth Park. Later on, the installation of "green track"—which incorporates sections of turf, ground cover, and succulent plants—will begin on London Circuit and Commonwealth Avenue. This innovative design aims to help the track harmonize with the surrounding environment while also minimizing glare, noise, and dust, and enhancing rainwater absorption.
Additionally, infrastructure improvements will include new traffic signals, street lighting, retaining walls, paving, asphalting, and landscaping that will complement the light rail extension.
Once completed, Stage 2A is expected to significantly improve access for commuters heading to City West, the Australian National University (ANU), New Acton, Commonwealth Park, and Lake Burley Griffin. Following the construction phase, testing and commissioning will take place, with the first passenger services to the newly added city stops anticipated for 2028.
As construction progresses on the new line, the light rail fleet is being prepared for wire-free running between the Alinga Street and Commonwealth Park stops. Five light rail vehicles (LRVs) have already received upgrades with new on-board energy storage systems (OESS) to facilitate this wire-free travel, and plans are in place to retrofit 14 LRVs in total. Five new LRVs are currently pre-fitted with OESS units, with four already operational.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing public transport, developing new facilities, and rejuvenating aging infrastructure within the city center. He stated, "Extending light rail is a key part of this plan, alongside the new Lyric Theatre, the Canberra Aquatic Centre, and the UNSW Canberra city campus. These investments are transformative and will improve accessibility in our city center while creating jobs and stimulating economic activity."
Transport Minister Chris Steel confirmed that Stage 2A remains on track to deliver operational light rail services to Commonwealth Park by 2028. He expressed gratitude to the community for their patience during this construction period, especially during the necessary bus replacement services.
He added, "While some further construction work will be required on Northbourne Avenue in the coming months, we will keep the community informed. Although these disruptions may be inconvenient now, they are part of a broader vision aimed at enhancing Canberra’s CBD for years to come. By improving public transport connectivity from the city to the lake, this project promises better access to homes, workplaces, businesses, healthcare services, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities, including the ANU, the lake, City West, and New Acton."
It's important to note that the funding for the Light Rail to Woden Stage 2A project comes from both the ACT and Australian governments, showcasing a collaborative effort to enhance public transport in the region.
