William Scott
Construction has begun on the Stage 2A extension of Canberra’s light rail network, bringing light rail services one step closer to reaching Woden.
Stage 2A of the Canberra Light Rail involves extending the existing rail network from Civic to Commonwealth Park to improve transport connections as the capital grows.
Canberra is one of Australia’s fastest growing cities with the population predicted to approach 750,000 by mid-century.
This $577 million joint investment by the federal and territory governments will prevent future congestion and provide greater ease of movement through our capital.
The project includes the construction of 1.7km of new rail line from Alinga Street to Commonwealth Park, a new bridge over Parkes Way and three new stations for City Edinburgh Avenue, City South and Commonwealth Park.
Once complete, the new rail connection will unlock housing and commercial opportunities and bring Canberra’s CBD closer to the lake.
Construction is due to be complete in 2027. Light rail services will connect Gungahlin and North Canberra to City West, the ANU, New Acton, Commonwealth Park and Lake Burley Griffin.
The Stage 2A project is expected to create 1,000 jobs and shape the way visitors and locals move around the city.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that light rail is future-proofing Canberra with a modern public transport system, connecting residential areas with employment precincts, and recreation and lifestyle hubs.
“This is about more than just transport, it’s about reshaping the way people move around Canberra and unlocking the growth of our nation’s capital,” Ms King said.
“It’s one of a number of significant projects we’re investing in to build Australia’s future, from the cities to the suburbs.”
Federal Minister for Finance and Senator for the ACT, Katy Gallagher, said that when she was ACT Chief Minister, she saw the potential that light rail had to transform and connect the city and that’s why her government started this project.
“Stage one of light rail has proven popular and has transformed the City to Gungahlin corridor and I am excited to see the next stage of this project getting underway to extend the tracks south of the lake,” Ms Gallagher said.
ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr, said that light rail is a long-term asset for Canberra.
“It will service our city for decades to come,” Mr Barr said.
“I’m pleased to see construction on Light Rail to Commonwealth Park in the heart of our city, connecting to the future Acton Waterfront, more homes and better commercial precincts in an underused part of our CBD.
“This is the next stage of a long-term plan to make the Canberra we love, even better.”
ACT Minister for Transport, Chris Steel, said that light rail has proven the benefits of mass transit in Canberra.
“This next stage is critical to building out the network and delivering better public transport to the rest of the city,’ Mr Steel said.
“Stage 2A is part of our wider vision of building a north-south light rail line to Woden, integrated with electric buses to our suburbs.
“The extension of the light rail network will also support more housing, so that more people can choose to live in well-located areas close to public transport and access to services.”
