Request for Proposals (RFP) are now open for the removal of the three level crossings along the Inner Armadale Line.
Today’s RFP calls for contractors to remove crossings at Oats Street, Mint Street and Welshpool Road.
At the same time planning continues for the removal of three more crossings at William Street, Wharf Street and Hamilton Street.
The level crossings will be closed and replaced with elevated rail. The successful contractor must also demonstrate how they will achieve good design outcomes for new public spaces under the elevated rail.
The plan follows work commencing last year on the Denny Avenue level crossing removal project in Kelmscott, with a rail over road underpass at Davis Road being constructed.
Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the crossing removals were targeted projects to deliver tangible benefits for the people of Perth.
“We are prioritising projects in Perth that will bust congestion but that are also going to drive the WA economy and deliver local jobs,” Mr Tudge said.
“These level crossings removals will do both.”
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the removal of level crossings along the Inner Armadale Line was a key McGowan Government election commitment.
“METRONET is the largest public transport investment in Perth’s history and the RFP process gives contractors the opportunity to be involved in delivering these exciting projects,” she said.
“This project will help support the Western Australian economy through COVID-19 while also ensuring we are building the infrastructure needed for tomorrow.
“This year alone we have seven METRONET projects under construction creating thousands of local jobs and opportunities for small local businesses.”
Federal Member for Swan Steve Irons said he had been campaigning for the removal of the level crossings for years.
“I’m pleased we have been able to secure funding for this important project that will create and support local jobs,” he said.
“The opening of today’s Request for Proposals gives local contractors the opportunity to get involved with these works.”
State Member for Victoria Park Ben Wyatt said the removal of the three level crossings was one of his key election commitments.
“Removing these level crossings help reduce frustrations for commuters in the area who can be stuck waiting for up to three trains to pass at a time,” he said.
“It is also a unique and extraordinary opportunity for the local community to have their say about the surrounding area and what they would like to see.”
Up to 2.8 kilometres of elevated rail could be laid along the Inner Armadale Line, providing more opportunities for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists to safely cross the rail corridor while also creating safer roads, quieter neighbourhoods and new connections between communities.
It will also remove the dreaded boom gates, reducing the amount of minutes spent by commuters sitting at level crossings. Currently Oats Street boom gates are closed 233 times a day for up to 1 minute 33 seconds per closure meaning it is down for up to six hours daily.
A contract for the removal of the level crossings is expected to be awarded in 2021.
The $415 million Inner Armadale Line Level Crossing Removal is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments.
