The Perth rail network is on its way to Byford with the start of early works at Thomas Road
Works have officially started on the Byford Rail Extension with preparatory works starting on the Thomas Road level crossing removal.
The new bridge over Thomas Road was separated from the main project works to boost jobs and the economy to assist COVID-19 recovery and is expected to be completed in late 2022. It is the first of several level crossings to be removed as part of the project.
Meanwhile, procurement for the rest of the Byford Rail Extension works is continuing, with the main contract expected to be awarded in 2021.
During the procurement phase, the shortlisted proponents will progress design and costs for the project, which involves extending the Armadale Line around 8km, from the existing at-grade Armadale Station, to a new at-grade station in Byford, and address five level crossings along the alignment.
Shortlisted proponents will also be asked to provide additional priced options to potentially expand the project scope and address further crossings on either end of the project through elevated rail:
- In the Armadale City Centre, Armadale Road, Forrest Road, and Church Avenue
- In the Byford Town Centre, South of Larsen Road to Abernethy Road
This may also include designing and costing elevated Armadale and Byford stations.
Potentially removing these additional level crossings would ease congestion and minimise long-term pain for commuters, as these crossings would likely need removing later. It would also improve connectivity and activation in and around the town centres.
The value for money of this expanded option will be compared with the current plan to deliver an upgrade to the existing Armadale Station and a new station in Byford. The final project scope is subject to further price and funding availability.