Gawler Rail Electrification sparks into construction

https://www.aeol.com.au/databases/news/19/11/sagov_gawler_rail_electrification.html

South Australian Government,

The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government in partnership with the South Australian Government has announced the commencement of construction works on the electrification and modernisation of the Gawler Rail Line.

Jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments the multi-million project is expected to support approximately 250 full-time equivalent jobs a year over the life of the project, with completion anticipated in 2021.

The Gawler Rail Line is Adelaide’s most heavily used rail line, carrying around 21,000 of the approximately 60,000 train commuters on an average weekday.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said once operational, there would be 15 electric trains servicing the Gawler Rail Line, with an increase in capacity during peak periods of around 15 per cent.

“An electrified Gawler line with clean and green high-performance trains will deliver an improved commuter experience, with better reliability and safety,” Mr McCormack said.

“This project is yet another investment in improved public transport to deliver faster, safer, more reliable and comfortable services for the people of South Australia, whilst promoting economic growth throughout its construction.

South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said this project formed part of the State Liberal Government’s $11.9 billion pipeline of infrastructure works over the next four years.

“The State Liberal Government is continuing to build South Australia, whether that be better roads, a better public transport system and better hospitals and schools,” Premier Marshall said.

“Importantly, this project will support job growth and deliver better services for the people of the Northern suburbs.”

Minister for Transport, infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said the Marshall Government was building a better public transport network to deliver better services and drive patronage growth.

“Once complete, the electrified line will provide a more modern, environmentally friendly and efficient train service that will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take public transport,” Mr Knoll said.

“This additional capacity will also support a host of housing, commercial and business developments underway or touted to begin in and around our northern suburbs.”

Senator for South Australia David Fawcett said the project has been jointly funded, with the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government contributing $220 million and the South Australian Liberal Government contributing $220 million towards the electrification of the rail line. The South Australian Government is also contributing a further $175 million to purchase additional electric trains.

“The project will also provide pedestrian level crossing enhancements and the replacement of the signalling system, which is a great result for the community,” Senator Fawcett said. 

The project involves electrification of the Gawler rail line from the Adelaide Railway Station to the Gawler Central Railway Station, including the Dry Creek Rail Car Depot and Salisbury Siding, delivering an electrified network through Adelaide from Gawler to Seaford.

Work will commence with the installation of a Common Services Trench to accommodate the new signalling system, followed by construction of the concrete footings to support the overhead wiring masts.