ISSUE 5 SUMMER 2009/2010

tracking nicely

> Tramline extension Project Director Manuel Delgado and Project Manager Angelo Lanzilli with new tram tracks outside the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

After months spent carefully “While we work in this section of the corridor, our design and planning team is preparing strategies to minimise crafting Adelaide’s newest public the impact on road users when we continue the track inside this issue transport corridor, track is now on Port Road and up along North Terrace. “A key theme of this project, like all the major projects being laid in preparation for trams > coast to coast light rail going on around the city and State right now, is to to begin running early next year. construct them with as little disruption to everyday life > glenelg tram overpass as possible. Rail is already in place at the Adelaide Entertainment “In keeping with that theme another bonus of starting > gallipoli underpass Centre with crews working to link up with the work at this end of the corridor is that it allows us to existing tramline at City West. > south road superway install sections of the track by the time the Christmas Project Director, Manuel Delgado explains the project lights display at the Brewery Gardens is switched on.” > northern expressway team’s strategy for rolling out the rail. Since work started in May this year crews have been > o-bahn city access “The Port Road median strip provides a discrete busy relocating utility services, such as sewer and and large work area which gives us greater fl exibility water mains, preparing the two bridges near Gaol Road > rail revitalisation in programming and physically undertaking the work,” and Park Terrace ready for rail, and of course widening he said. sections of road along the 2.8 kilometre extension. Cont pg.5

www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 1 sturt highway by Hook contents upgrade p13

Listen to people talk rail revitalisation about the iconic cities p15 of the world and you often gawler hear about their equally symbolic transport systems. London has its “tube”, New York its “subway” and Melbourne its trams. northern expressway p8-9 Here in Adelaide the focus is less about a marquee mode and more on maximising effi ciency and integration. rail revitalisation northern Ours is a city where most routes are served by p8 connector buses - and this will continue. As well as additions outer harbor p13 being made to the Adelaide Metro bus fl eet, a major overhaul of our rail ‘spines’ will enhance opportunities for integration of the various south road transport modes. p7 coast to coast superway That’s why we are seeing unprecedented investment p1 in public transport infrastructure across all modes, light rail as well as on roads and cycle paths. o-bahn The key to that investment is that it isn’t in single p10 city access mode infrastructure. A wonderful example is the Glenelg Tram Overpass. glenelg tram Not only will we take trams over South Road p4 gallipoli to improve traffi c fl ow and experiences for tram overpass p6 underpass commuters, but pedestrians and cyclists can use a shared path. Then there are indented bus bays that provide seamless links with bus services. rail revitalisation We’re being similarly responsible and innovative darlington p15 on projects like the Northern Expressway, where transport study p10 belair cyclists will enjoy a 23 kilometre dedicated path. Then there is the purchase of fully accessible new buses, trams and trains. rail revitalisation strategic infrastructure plan An integrated transport system is a key component noarlunga p16 of a city like Adelaide and it’s the system we are > Develop and deepen Outer Harbor and substantially delivering now. improve infrastructure at the Port of Adelaide. seaford > Improve the north-south corridor. Rod Hook p14 > Develop and maintain regional freight networks. Executive Director rail extension Offi ce of Major Projects and Infrastructure > Increase use of public transport. gift of life garden

Honouring the generosity of organ donors and families continues after the successful relocation of the Gift of Life Garden.

Bonython Park is the new home of the garden, developed through consultation between the Coast to Coast Light Rail project team, South Australian Organ Donor Agency and donor family representatives. It is nestled behind the stand of carob trees on the corner of James Congdon Drive and Port Road. The Gift of Life Garden was successfully relocated from its original place in the Port Road median opposite the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. It’s new location means the roses that are planted each year will continue to commemorate the generosity of those who have saved or signifi cantly changed lives by donating their organs. > The Gift of Life garden will bloom at its new location.

2 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient earthly delights projects scoop awards

> The Port River Expressway bridges won the prestigious Malcolm Kinnaird Engineering Excellence Award.

Three of South Australia’s major The multi-award winning Blessed Mary MacKillop and “The project competed against stiff opposition Tom ‘Diver’ Derrick bridges were recognised in the around Australia and New Zealand, including infrastructure projects have been category for projects over $75 million, and included the $3 billion Eastlink project in Victoria consisting honoured by the engineering features to minimise the impact of bridge works on of 88 bridges along its 39 kilometre length.” industry with wins at two marine life and prevent stormwater being discharged The Port River Expressway links freight entering prestigious award ceremonies. into the river. South Australia’s major port and rail terminals directly The $178 million Port River Expressway bridges also with the national highways and national rail network The Rapid Bay Jetty, Gallipoli Underpass and the received national recognition at the 2009 Austroads servicing Perth, Darwin, Sydney and Melbourne. Port River Expressway road and rail bridges swept their Bridge Awards in Auckland. The Port River Expressway road and rail bridges respective categories for excellence in civil construction “South Australia can feel proud to be home to such were offi cially opened to traffi c in August 2008. at the Civil Contractors Federation Earth Awards. an innovative and exciting piece of infrastructure” The Port River Expressway project has taken out Mr Hook said. the State’s most sought after engineering prize – the Malcolm Kinnaird Engineering Excellence Award. The award is presented each year to South Australia’s most outstanding engineering achievement. Executive Director of Major Projects, Rod Hook said he was delighted that the projects were recognised not only for excellence in project management and construction technique, but for environmental management as well. “These awards are a terrifi c acknowledgement of three major infrastructure projects that have made signifi cant contributions to our State,” he said. “It is particularly gratifying that projects like these > An angler enjoys the award-winning and environmentally-friendly Rapid Bay Jetty. are recognised both for the benefi ts they provide the community and the foresight that goes into their design and construction.” “From maintaining habitats for national treasures like the leafy sea dragon and Port River dolphins to responsibly managing ground water, sound environmental practices are core to our major projects.” The Rapid Bay Jetty, constructed with concrete and steel, was designed both to preserve the region’s rich diversity of marine life and to ensure structural stability for future generations without the high costs associated with traditionally built wooden jetties. The Earth Awards also recognised the Gallipoli Underpass project’s similarly strong commitment to environmental management, with more than 18,000 trees and shrubs planted as part of the extensive revegetation program. > The Gallipoli Underpass had the environmental credentials to win an Earth Award. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 3 > Giant ‘super t’ tram bridge beams are guided in over South Road. beam team shaping overpass It’s not everyday that a police escort accompanies delivery of construction materials, but this was the case for the big beams being used to build the new tram overpass over South Road.

Project Director Paul Gelston said that thirty ‘super t’ “Installation of those huge beams was one of two ”We thank the local community for their patience bridge beams were trucked over from Victoria and occasions that we’ve closed South Road – the other as we move towards the home stretch of construction a further twelve were made by local company Bianco. was to install the temporary tram track itself. works on this section of South Road. “The beams arrived from interstate with a police escort “These closures were to maximise safety for all, “I particularly acknowledge the cooperation of local and were delivered over several weekends in batches both workers and the public, while these diffi cult residents who had to change their regular travel of four and stored at the Mitsubishi site down south,” he tasks were underway,” he said. patterns, in some cases due to the road changes said. “At the same time, work is continuing on the reinforced that were put in place for this project.” “They’re each 30 metres long and 3 metres wide, earth wall embankments that form approaches to the similar to those installed for the Gallipoli Underpass, new bridge. Once the tram overpass is complete traffi c will fl ow freely under the structure and, combined with the new so we brought in two very big cranes to lift them “We’re currently on track for trams to be using the into place over South Road. new overpass structure by the end of 2009 and Gallipoli Underpass, a signifi cant fi rst couple of steps “Building the overpass while keeping the tram service for the new tram platform to be open for use by towards the State Government’s goal of a non-stop going on temporary tracks has been a challenging task. the public in early 2010. north-south corridor will be complete.

glenelg tram overpass

what’s happened

> Temporary track installed and operational. > Storm water drain relocated. > All 42 bridge beams installed. what’s next

> Stitching the bridge components together. > Installing the rail tracks on the new bridge structure. > Construct local access road under the overpass. > Build the new central platform. > Erect new lift shafts on each side of South Road. > Trams to be operating on the new structure by Christmas 2009.

> A beam arrives with its police escort.

4 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient travelling trams ready for rail

> A concept image shows how a new tram will look going past the Adelaide Railway Station.

Adelaide’s six new European tracking nicely – continued from page 1 trams recently enjoyed a sea Unlike the fi rst tramline extension from Victoria coast to coast voyage from Spain to Melbourne Square to North Terrace, which did not involve light rail before heading to South Australia any road widening, the connection to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre has many of the characteristics by road – ready to become a of a road project, including earthworks and the key part of our extended light realignment of traffi c lanes such as in the approaches rail network. to the North Terrace /Port Road intersection. Trams, including the brand new Euro style models, Each tram arrived in Australia in two halves for will operate in the central corridor allowing for all what’s happened modifi cations at Melbourne’s Preston Tram Depot existing traffi c lanes and bicycle lanes to be retained. > Road widening and service relocation. before being moved to Adelaide. “We’ve made very good progress to date and all > Track laying adjacent Adelaide They’re being trialled and will progressively enter members of the project team are working hard Entertainment Centre. service from December. to have the new service in operation early next year,” > New traffi c conditions The trams will increase TransAdelaide’s modern Manuel Delgado said. Park Terrace/Port Road. light rail fl eet by 50% and provide a signifi cant boost “And in no small part that is due to the fantastic to tram customers, especially in the morning and cooperation we have had from the local afternoon peak periods. community – both residential and commercial – They are expected to make tram travel even more around the project corridor. what’s next popular in Adelaide, particularly with the extension “We are also very grateful to the many motorists > Track works Port Road – North Terrace of the network. that have been patient with the modifi cations we are (late 2009 – early 2010). making to traffi c fl ow through the life of the extension.” > Testing and commissioning (early 2010). > Project completion.

fast facts

> Total length of rail - approximately 16,500m. > Total tonnages of asphalt - 45,000 tonnes. > Earth moved - 6,000 tonnes.

> Part of Adelaide’s new tram fl eet is loaded onto the Melbourne docks after the sea voyage from Europe. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 5 gallipoli underpass

indebted to the local community and motoring public of South Australia for their patience during the construction period. “I especially want to pay tribute to those whose property we had to acquire. It is an unfortunate but nonetheless necessary part of any major road project and I am extremely thankful to them. “They have played a very large part in delivering a better transport solution for their city and their State. “Then there were the twelve community liaison group meetings we held over the life of the project with councillors from the cities of Unley and West Torrens regularly attending each meeting – a big thanks to those people who really were key stakeholders for us in this project.” Traffi c has fl owed through the underpass since March in keeping with the project team’s commitment > An aerial view of the Gallipoli Underpass. to maximise traffi c fl ow and minimise delays to traffi c during construction. The fi nal layer of asphalt was laid in November this year and along with line marking, footpath works and new dawn the comprehensive landscaping program, comprised the fi nishing touches to this $118 million project. The project team will remain on site establishing the new landscaping for the next two years. “Being able to open to traffi c in March was a terrifi c at gallipoli milestone, but that didn’t signal the end of the project. So I want to acknowledge the general understanding Work to plant more than 18,000 trees, shrubs and plants is complete that much work was still required to allow a full and the fi nal touches are now being applied to the Gallipoli Underpass. range of traffi c movements at this intersection,” Paul Gelston said. Already an award winning project (see page 3), the “Our targeted completion date for this project has “After a long process we are now coming to the underpass is now operating as designed with all traffi c been the end of 2009 and for this to have been end – on time and on budget.” movements fi nalised and speed restrictions lifted. achieved while maintaining traffi c fl ow through the With the Glenelg Tram Overpass also due for It’s a particularly pleasing time for Project Director intersection throughout the construction period is completion at the end of 2009, with just a little more Paul Gelston who has overseen construction of a really good result for everyone involved,” he said. patience now, motorists and the local community Adelaide’s newest piece of transport infrastructure “I’m really grateful to the team that has delivered the alike can look forward to a very happy New Year for the last two years. project, especially our contractors and I’m equally on South Road.

memories sown at memorial garden

Ninety-four years to the day after the Battle of theme fl ows through the landscaping on each Lone Pine ended at Gallipoli, the nine thousand of the four sides of the underpass. soldiers who died were recognised when the ANZAC The design also includes four feature walls IMAGE TO COME Memorial Garden was unveiled at the Gallipoli honouring our service men and women in the Underpass intersection on Sunday, August 9. Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Army, the A tree was planted to symbolically represent the Royal Australian Air Force and the New Zealand Lone Pine in memory of those who have and Defence Force. do serve Australia and New Zealand in war. An artistic interpretation of the Australian Army’s An integral part of the Gallipoli Underpass urban Rising Sun badge has been incorporated into design has been to create the garden in recognition the Gallipoli Underpass bridge design. of the ANZAC Alliance and strengthen a key focus The badge’s bayonets are represented on the bridge of the project - honouring the ANZAC legend. and coloured red to recognise the eternal fl ame – The Gallipoli Underpass name was suggested by the a perpetual symbol of the gratitude Australians Veterans’ Advisory Council and this commemorative have for the sacrifi ces their soldiers have made. > The memorial garden at the Gallipoli Underpass.

6 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient super south road south road on the way superway what’s happened A planning study investigating how to turn the northern end of South > Consultation with business, community Road into a non-stop corridor has come up with a preferred design – and government stakeholders. to build an elevated road way, called the South Road Superway, above > Identifi ed key vehicle access routes the existing South Road. and movements. > Developed and assessed concept options. > Developed a concept option for local road network upgrades. > Recommended a preferred design that maximises results for road users and local communities. what’s next

> Assessment of the economic, social and environmental effects. > Continue to engage with businesses, residents, interest groups and government agencies. > Seek approvals for project to proceed with expected completion in late 2013. fast facts

> The South Road Superway from the Port River Expressway to Regency Road, will reduce > A concept image of the elevated road above South Road that will form the Superway. travel times by up to seven minutes and Freight at the northern end of the State’s prime given the amount of road and rail freight is expected improve safety for the 45,000 vehicles that industrial precinct will reap signifi cant gains from to grow exponentially. Delivering infrastructure solutions use this section of the road daily. the South Road Superway: a multiple lane elevated that ensure the effi cient passage of export goods > It will improve productivity for the 17 per cent road high above South Road spanning a distance is critical,” Mr Rossi said. of vehicles using the road that carry freight including B-doubles and road trains by of around three kilometres. The elevated roadway will start at the Port River linking to Adelaide’s industrial precinct, The project will improve industry access to export Expressway and extend over six major intersections Airport, Islington Rail Terminal, Port Adelaide markets and industrial transport hubs, which is critical including South Terrace, Wingfi eld rail line and and Outer Harbor. given the northern end of South Road is a key freight Grand Junction Road before rejoining the existing route for Adelaide’s major export generating industries. South Road. > It’s expected to support around 2,750 jobs This includes wine, food and automotive products, and the growth of local businesses. “We have been working with residents, businesses with around 25 per cent of all South Australian industry > It will enhance the prime industrial precinct and industry to come up with the best solution and based in and around this area. of Regency Park and Wingfi eld with more we thank them for their contributions to this point. effi cient heavy vehicle access. It will be the largest investment in a single road project I am also looking forward to working with them ever undertaken in South Australia. further as the project progresses,” Luigi Rossi said. The South Road Superway will include: The concept was developed following a series Stakeholder feedback from the South Road Superway > a 2.8 kilometre elevated road 10 metres of engineering and environmental investigations with Project Impact Report, released in October is now above the existing road that will extend south contributions from locals, businesses and landowners. being addressed ahead of the release of the from the Port River Expressway above the It will minimise disruption to business operators Supplementary Report early next year. major intersections of South Terrace/Wingfi eld and land owners during construction and deliver rail line/Cormack Road/Grand Junction Subject to approval, construction is expected a landmark solution to free-up traffi c congestion. Road and Days Road before reconnecting to begin in 2010 with the elevated roadway to open to South Road near Aruma Street Project Director Luigi Rossi said a roadway above to traffi c in December 2013. Simultaneously, planning > grade separation over four signalised South Road is the optimum design solution to reduce for the length of the north-south corridor is underway intersections and one railway crossing road congestion and maximise safety and traffi c thanks to the Australian Government’s $70 million effi ciency for all road users. funding allocation. > modifi cations to the 1.7 kilometre section of South Road between Taminga Street “Once the South Road Superway is constructed The Federal Government has committed $500 and Regency Road there will be an immediate reduction in congestion million, and the State Government an additional for commuters and freight while providing excellent $430 million, to transform South Road into a true > upgrades to the local road system, including Naweena Road and Hanson east-west connections to the local road network non-stop transport corridor – stretching from the Road between Grand Junction Road and separation of the road from rail lines,“ he said. Port River Expressway in the north to Darlington and Cormack Road. “This project will enhance the State’s freight industry in the south – on top of the fully state funded Gallipoli and not just maintain the status quo which is important Underpass and Glenelg Tram Overpass. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 7 northern expressway school’s in at nexy In keeping with the Northern Expressway’s growing reputation in the surrounding community as much more than a road, a unique education program is underway to complement > An artist’s impression of the proposed Northern Connector. this historic project. Four teachers have been seconded to the project team to develop curriculum units based on real life industry experience and relevant to current connector route curriculum in local schools. Project Director Luigi Rossi explains. “As a project of this scale progresses different jobs are created and we quickly recognised that if we studied further wanted to promote these jobs to young people and address skills shortages we needed to be in The Northern Connector planning touch with teachers,” he said. study has moved to a new phase Workshops conducted with local teachers identifi ed the Premier’s initiative as an opportunity. with analysis of the preferred route The Premier’s initiative develops maths and science for the propsed road and rail skills for industry to ensure school students receive northern an up-to-date and realistic understanding of the corridor beng extended. connector application of science and maths within industry. Additional time will be taken to better understand On the Northern Expressway, project teachers how the Northern Connector project can contribute are seconded for a two week period to immerse towards the objectives of the draft 30-year Plan for themselves in the project and develop a complex Greater Adelaide and maximise its benefi ts beyond Recognising the environmental sensitivity of the understanding of the opportunities it provides the road network. area the Northern Connector will traverse, ongoing to the local and wider community. The proposed construction timetable will be consultation with local councils, State Government Kym Brooks from Quorn Area School and Michelle coordinated with projected job creation from industrial agencies and local community groups will continue Brodie from One Tree Hill Primary School became development in the northern Adelaide regions. to ensure the impacts on native vegetation, wetlands involved in the Northern Expressway project to and bird habitats are minimised. Opportunities take their learnings back to the classroom and their A preferred route was chosen after a rigorous selection to create additional wetlands along other sections work will soon be available to teachers across process with the fi nal choice believed to be the optimal of the route are being explored as part of the project. South Australia. solution, taking into account economic, social and environmental factors. It is proposed that the Northern Connector would be Their lesson plans, videos, fact sheets and resource a dual-use road and rail corridor, achieving the fi nal link lists provide students with the opportunity to connect This choice of route is being tested via development in a strategic freight route from northern South Australia skills in all learning areas with real life experiences. of a project impact report and gathering of community to both Adelaide and our major export facility, the They also teach students that a road is much more feedback to determine the fi nal route. Port of Adelaide. than laying bitumen by encouraging them to look The assessment of project impacts identifi es and From the south, it would start at the Port River at planning, designing, budgeting, construction, assesses the environmental, social and economic Expressway and South Road interchange and run environmental and community issues. effects of the project. It will result in a report that though to the Northern Expressway interchange In addition to the formal education program describes the project, summarises the technical with Port Wakefi eld Road. The Northern underway with local schools, the Northern Expressway investigations undertaken including the project’s Connector would run to the western side of the has enjoyed a host of healthy relationships with effects on the region, and the methods proposed existing Port Wakefi eld Road. institutions across northern Adelaide. to avoid or minimise any adverse impacts. Although the Northern Connector is not funded, They have included working with Civil Train to support The community will have an opportunity to view it has been listed as a priority by the Australian the Women in Civil training programs, promoting and comment on the fi ndings of the report once Government. Motoring and transport bodies, such the project’s innovative strategies via conferences, it is completed. All feedback received will be collated as the South Australian Road Transport Association, trade publications and community events and and considered by the project team with a supplement South Australian Freight Council and Royal Automobile extensive involvement in work experience programs report prepared to respond to any issues raised by the Association, have indicated their support for for high school students, and vacation placements community. investment in the project. for university students.

8 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient northern expressway express pace on northern front

> An aerial view of the Northern Expressway taking shape.

Construction of the largest road project in South Australia for more than half a century is motoring along on budget and well ahead of schedule.

In July, the fi rst of 15 bridges to be constructed as Heaslip Road to pass over the expressway. part of the half a billion dollar project was opened In addition, the intersection of Womma and Heaslip to traffi c on Angle Vale Road, followed by a second what’s happened Roads will be joined by a roundabout to dramatically at Curtis Road in October. improve road safety at this location. > Angle Vale Road bridge opened. Construction of the major Heaslip/Womma Road In the local community the project team is promoting interchange is progressing well with crews working > Curtis Road bridge opened. the Northern Expressway as “more than a road” towards opening the bridge to traffi c by January 2010. and are demonstrating a commitment to innovation Over the next few months work will continue on and best practice on this project. what’s next bridges at Penfi eld Road and Two Wells Road as At the recent completion of construction on the the project enters the home straight. > Heaslip Road/Womma Road Curtis Road Interchange, 30 local school students The project’s completion date has been brought bridge to open. were treated to a two-hour site visit. During their forward from December 2010 to September next year. stay they received a safety briefi ng, visited the > Gawler Bypass/Port Wakefi eld Project Director Luigi Rossi is now challenging his nursery where around 750,000 plants are being Road access. team to continue the fantastic effi ciency that has grown as part of the massive landscaping component become a hallmark of this massive undertaking. of the expressway and learnt about the environmental “The weather is a major infl uence on construction elements of the state’s biggest road project. fast facts projects like the Northern Expressway, but when Each participant received their own plants to take > In excess of 2,700 people have been it affects our progress we move our resources home as well as planting on-site at Curtis Road. employed on this project with around and then we increase our capacity when the weather 50 per cent of these residing north is favourable,” he said. The students were given the chance to view the of Gepps Cross. “As a team we are really proud of the way we have animation of the new road, examine the 3-D model, watch time lapse footage of the bridge construction > The Curtis Road Bridge comprises progressed to date and we will continue to strive and ask questions of the project team. twelve 58 tonne pre-cast concrete beams, toward delivering a vital piece of transport infrastructure 750 m3 of poured concrete, 110 tonnes as soon as we can. “It was great for the students to see what is going of reinforcing steel and thirty nine 3.2 “It really is exciting to think that we are less than on here, we’ve worked closely with many of their tonne pre-cast concrete barriers. a year from seeing cars use the 23 kilometre parents as part of the community engagement > More than 2,000 people have visited expressway and really change the way people focus that directly resulted in some changes and toured the site to lean more move around Adelaide’s north. to our design,” Luigi Rossi notes. about the project. This includes school, The opening of the Heaslip/Womma Road bridge “That sense of this being more than a road has engineering groups, interstate transport represents a major milestone for the project. When helped us foster partnerships and give a sense and community groups. complete, this full interchange will have on and off of ownership to all members of the local ramps for north and south bound traffi c and allow community – young and old”. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 9 darlington transport study transport study looks south fast facts A $6 million planning study Urban regeneration opportunities could also improve the liveability of the area through better > The study will plan for the future looking at options for a major land use and environmental management. demands along Adelaide main north-south transport upgrade at Darlington “The study will run for 18 months and investigate arterial corridor including a grade separation of South Road and Sturt Road and is already underway. options for maximising effi ciency and integration of transport in what is one of the busiest parts investigate the potential for an extension of metropolitan Adelaide,” she said. of the Tonsley Rail line. The Darlington Transport Study, to be completed “It will include traffi c, transport and engineering > It will look for ways to improve public in 2011, will look at how to upgrade this section studies, an environmental impact assessment, transport facilities, reduce urban congestion of South Road as well as examine the potential community engagement activity and an economic and identify land use opportunities in the for extension of the Tonsley rail line. evaluation,” she said. southern suburbs. Project Director Denise Hatzi said this includes This planning study is another important step > Social, environmental and economic the possibility of a new public transport towards delivering the State Government’s vision factors will be considered in addition interchange and a Park and Ride facility near of an unimpeded and free-fl owing road corridor to transport infrastructure. the Flinders Medical Centre. from north to south of metropolitan Adelaide. o-bahn options on the table

Given the speed, effi ciency and Once fi nished, the O-Bahn City Access project innovation of the existing O-Bahn is designed to reduce O-Bahn bus travel times bus route, it makes sense to clear to and from the city by up to 10 minutes. the way for buses to reach the Funded by the Australian Government to the tune of $61 million, this O-Bahn project complements the o-bahn city access city centre just as quickly once State Government’s $2 billion decade long investment the track ends near the city. to transform the State’s public transport system.

To make this happen, a range of options to deliver faster access to the city are currently being considered by a dedicated project team. Project Director Paul Gelston, whose most recent achievement was completion of the Gallipoli Underpass on South Road, is thrilled to take up this exciting project. “Planning works are well underway to fi nd a solution that makes O-Bahn travel even faster to the city,” Paul Gelston said. “At the same time, we’re considering the needs of those who might be affected by any changes,” he said. “We’re looking at a number of options for Hackney Road and how to provide buses with direct access to the city centre. “We’re working closely with the City of Adelaide and other interested parties to determine the most effective option for bus operations in the city.” Other activities to date include: • completion of fi eld surveys • vegetation surveys are in progress • impacts on existing services are being assessed • testing works are underway at the bridge crossing the Torrens River on Hackney Road. > O-Bahn buses will have improved access to the city.

10 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient change for the better The largest overhaul of public transport timetables ever undertaken is now delivering better bus and train services for hundreds of thousands of South Australians.

More than 90 timetables were reviewed and released “Whereas once upon a time public transport users “A lot of money is being spent on the infrastructure in August this year in the lead up to the widespread travelled to the city only, an increasing number to deliver a revitalised public transport network for service changes that came into effect from of people travel across the CBD to get to work and Adelaide and it’s important we match that investment September 27. as a modern public transport network we need with strategy on the ground,” Kevin O’Callaghan says. Since then customers on the Adelaide Metro bus and to adapt to those changes.” “We had to make sure we had every base covered to try and reach all the travelling public and on the train network have enjoyed more frequent services, For the fi rst time in more than a decade weekend train whole the result has been very pleasing. better connections, more peak period services and an timetables were reviewed providing extra carriages increase in express services. on all weekend services and greater frequency on “I’m proud to say our buses are going where more people want them to go more of the time “The catalyst has been putting an additional 20 buses selected corridors. and that’s the key to operating a successful mass into the system and that has allowed us to make In the lead up to September 27 and in the weeks transit system. some very signifi cant improvements,” Public Transport following the implementation of new timetables, a “And we’ll keep looking at ways to improve the system. Executive Director, Kevin O’Callaghan explains. detailed community information campaign was rolled We work closely with local Members of Parliament, out to advise customers of changes to their services. “For example in the morning and afternoon peaks we councils, community groups, schools, aged care are seeing a bus come down the O-Bahn on average More than three million hits were recorded on Adelaide facilities and the single traveller to ascertain where every 40 seconds or so – that’s really good frequency Metro’s website and over 940,000 timetables were we should focus our efforts. in anyone’s language. distributed. “While not everyone appreciates change, I think “We’ve also created a real public transport hub along Radio and print advertisements were supported by our customers do appreciate change for the better.” The Parade at Norwood and improved cross town personal service at major interchanges and selected For all your public transport timetable information either services in recognition of changing travel patterns. bus stops to spread the news. call 8210 1000 or visit www.adelaidemetro.com.au Ride with us to the future.

Major improvements are rolling out across your bus, train and tram networks.

faster more frequent greener more effi cient

delivering our transport future now

infrastructure.sa.gov.au Images are for illustrative purposes only.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 11 track to the future

> Adelaide’s rail network is benefi ting signifi cantly from the $2 billion investment in public transport.

Adelaide’s metropolitan rail network and its customers are set to experience a number of improvements both now and in the coming years. Already underway is the State Government’s signifi cant investment to revitalise Adelaide’s existing rail lines and to build new light rail (tram) options for commuters.

This will coincide with innovative new urban year we focussed our maintenance activities to developments centred around public transport hubs. achieve the greatest positive impact for our customers. The coming years will bring a number of exciting “We’ve been able to remove speed restrictions changes for Adelaide’s rail network. on some tracks and improve travel times for our Bob Stobbe, TransAdelaide’s Chief Executive, says customers as a result. that on top of the long-term investment there are “Our fl eet of 3000 series railcars are being many positive changes happening right now to improve refurbished, we have already replaced polycarbonate > The interior of a refurbished 3000 series railcar. services for commuters. windows with clear glass and we’re currently “We’re not just investing in rail but are aiming to improve improving onboard security and disability access. the quality of Adelaide’s transport system overall,” fast facts “Later this year we will see our recently acquired he said. euro-trams in service, so our popular tram steps to refurbish a railcar “At the same time we are helping Adelaide to become service can continue to grow – particularly when Railcars are stripped of existing internal a more sustainable city with rail the spine of Adelaide’s the extension to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre fi ttings then: metropolitan transport network,” he said. is complete early next year. > painted internally and externally “Together with projects revitalising the rail network, “In another great initiative, seniors card holders have we are making improvements to the way we operate, been travelling for free on our trams and trains during > fi tted with new weather shields, hand rails, providing safer, customer focussed services for the the off-peak period since July, providing an incentive partitions and fl ooring people of Adelaide. for these people to stay socially and physically active. > installed with emergency intercom buttons “Community safety is obviously a high priority, so and upgraded CCTV systems “Today, and over the next decade, there is a huge level we’ve been upgrading pedestrian crossings and of investment in public transport. > the internal layout is updated to include installing more secure fencing across the network. allocated spaces for two wheelchairs with “It’s improving right now and will only get better into the “In a fi rst for Australian rail systems, ‘Caution, More a driver intercom and a bike stow area future – we’re making changes for the better, both big Than One Train’ multiple train warning systems have > the new passenger information system and small across the entire network.” been installed at priority locations, and at some is installed, including automated next stop crossings that also feature automated pedestrian gates. Improvements to Adelaide’s rail network will coincide messages – similar to LED displays in trams with Transport Oriented Developments across “Customer safety is continually being improved with > the doors are automated, open request metropolitan Adelaide, with the fi rst located on the recent changes including an increased presence buttons are fi tted (similar to trams) and by security guards, an ongoing roll out of CCTV old Clipsal site at Bowden. mechanical interlocks improve door safety cameras across the network, improved lighting These changes are consistent with the vision to > data, such as timetables, trip routes and and station upgrades.” make Adelaide one of Australia’s most liveable and station location, for on-board computers “We also understand how important it is to our sustainable cities by investing $2 billion over a will be uploaded and verifi ed. customers that our services run on time, so this decade to revitalise the public transport network.

12 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient next stop outer harbor

rail revitalisation outer harbor

what’s happened

> Contractor appointed and substitute bus timetable released. > Consultation with commuters. > Start of major works. what’s next

> First stage of upgrade of Port Adelaide station. > Level crossing upgrades. > The Port Adelaide Viaduct is an integral part of the Outer Harbor line. > Outer Harbor line reopens early 2010. The upgrade of the Port Adelaide timetables available about a month before we started > Project completion – mid 2010. Viaduct on the Outer Harbor line – work,” Tim Warren said. the next step in Adelaide’s “As we did successfully with the Belair line renewal fast facts works earlier this year, we’ve worked hard to make unprecedented rail revitalisation the buses provide a similar level of service frequency > The fi rst steam train ran between Adelaide program – is underway. to the trains. and Port Adelaide, stopping at Bowden, Woodville and Alberton in 1856. Built in 1919, the viaduct, or rail bridge, is located “There has been a real focus among our dedicated > Around 10,000 people use the Outer Harbor 11 kilometres from the centre of Adelaide on the project team of working one on one to address Outer Harbor railway line and crosses Commercial line services each day. concerns and travel needs as best we can.” Road, Lipson Street and College Street at > The Outer Harbor line was concrete Port Adelaide. Coinciding with the revitalisation of the viaduct the re-sleepered between Adelaide and Port Adelaide railway station will get a makeover. Fresh from overseeing the successful upgrade of the Woodville in 1999 then between Woodville Belair line, Project Director Tim Warren and his team That work will include new platforms and shelters, and Outer Harbor in 2002. began work to restore the 90 year old structure earlier improved lighting, fencing and CCTV security monitoring. this month. “The viaduct work is a step towards ultimately delivering a fully electrifi ed line for Outer Harbor customers,” he said. sturt highway “That means ongoing reliable and comfortable upgrade safer sturt a services for around three thousand commuters who cross the viaduct everyday.” model project Over the next four months work is being undertaken to replace approximately 600 metres Construction of a new bridge over Seppeltsfi eld of railway track, install new sleepers, rail and ballast. The transformation of the Sturt Road and a new steel arch culvert in Greenock Repairs are also being carried out on structural Highway into a modern freight Creek has also begun. steelwork while a new corrosion protection system and tourist corridor continues To further improve safety along and beyond the is being applied. with fantastic effi ciency. Sturt Highway, a new rest area was built near A number of level crossings on the Outer Harbor line The latest duplicated section of the highway Laucke’s Mill as part of the duplication work, will be upgraded as part of the project, namely level between Gawler and Daveyston is now open providing motorists and truck drivers with crossings at Cheltenham Parade, Cheltenham Fussell to traffi c having been completed four months an additional safe place to take a break or Place, Alberton, Wirra Drive, Ethelton, Fletcher Road, ahead of schedule and well under budget. catch up on sleep. Largs Bay, Strathfi eld Terrace, Taperoo and Golfcourse The facility can cater for up to 12 B-double trucks Road, North Haven. Savings achieved on that section of the project are already being used to deliver and is the last designated rest area before freight While the upgrade requires the partial closure further improvements along the Sturt Highway, carriers reach Adelaide’s outer suburbs. of the line between Woodville and Outer Harbor, including the duplication of a further 3.5 The new rest area acknowledges the tradition and buses are now running in place of train services. kilometres between Seppeltsfi eld Road and culture of the local indigenous community, featuring Trains are continuing to operate on the Grange line Greenock Road. a pathway that meanders along a large snake and between Adelaide and Woodville, to a temporary Work on this extension is now well under way form road art installation as well as a series timetable. with excavation of a new off ramp to Greenock of interpretative display panels describing the “A lot of work went into the timetabling of those among the fi rst items of the construction program. Ngadjuri way of life. substitute services and we were able to have the delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 13 crows fl ight for rail extension

> An artist’s impression of an electric train crossing the 1.2 kilometre elevated bridge over the Onkaparinga River.

They say the fastest way to get “We’ll continue to engage you as the project • three new road bridges over the track at somewhere is to do it as the crow progresses towards a fi nal design and then Goldsmith Drive, Seaford Road and Lynton Terrace construction – so watch this space.” • new accesses and footbridges for cyclists and fl ies. When the 5.5 kilometre rail The extension of the dual track rail line from Noarlunga pedestrians line to Seaford is in place you’ll be to Seaford will include: • landscaping and urban design features at selected doing just that in the comfort of locations. • a station and a bus/train interchange at the Seaford Construction of the extension is expected to start a new electric train. rail terminus, as well as a Park and Ride at the mid 2010 with electric train services to be operating Seaford Meadows station Work has already begun on the $291 million Federally- in 2013, in line with the completion of electrifi cation funded project to extend the Noarlunga rail line to • South Australia’s longest (1.2 kilometre) elevated of the Noarlunga line. Seaford and provide quick, quiet and reliable transport bridge over the Onkaparinga River and River Road for the southern suburbs. as well as a rail bridge over Old Honeypot Road Electric trains will operate on the extension, funded from the State Government’s $2 billion decade long investment in public transport. The fi rst detailed geotechnical surveys of the route to determine the suitability of the ground conditions Noarlunga for the rail line and the 1.2 kilometre rail bridge over Interchange the Onkaparinga Valley are complete. The rail bridge seaford alone will be no small feat given it’ll be the longest rail extension bridge ever built in South Australia. The State Government has selected the best man for the job – fresh from building the highly technical what’s happened and multi-award winning Port River Expressway rail and road bridges – Project Director David Bartlett. > Consultation with local businesses/residents and the Kaurna community. “I’m pleased to be working on another project that has the potential to become an iconic piece of transport > Planning, design and environmental infrastructure for the State, while at the same time assessment study to develop concept designs providing the people of the south with employment for the rail corridor, stations and to opportunities during construction and, when the project identify associated environmental impacts. > Geotechnical investigations. is complete, a new and world-class public transport Onkaparinga service,” he said. Recreational Park “This project is expected to create more than 400 jobs over the next four years and there will be permanent what’s next jobs in the future for drivers, maintenance workers and > Preliminary works to start in early 2010. station staff. > Major works to start in mid 2010. “The fi rst work on site was geotechnical investigations at around 50 locations along the rail corridor with a mounted rig boring holes to a depth of approximately 30 metres – determining the ground profi le that will Seaford fast facts inform the detailed design of this rail extension. Meadows > The 1.2 kilometre elevated bridge to be “We’re now working closely with the City of Onkaparinga, constructed over the Onkaparinga River the community and stakeholders, including local and River Road will be the longest rail Aboriginal elders, to make sure that the design and bridge in South Australia. construction is sensitive to the varied and complex > A station and a bus/train interchange social, environmental and economic factors in this area. will be constructed at the Seaford “I thank everyone for their early positive feedback District Centre. Seaford and contributions that we’re already using to inform > A station and Park and Ride will be development of a plan to construct the electrifi ed rail constructed at Seaford Meadows. bridge, track and stations along the new line.

14 Summer 2009/2010 faster more frequent greener more effi cient rail revitalisation gawler

what’s happened

> Environmental management planning. > Survey and geotechnical investigations. > Commencement of design work. northern exposure > Start manufacturing concrete sleepers. > A concept image of an electric train at Gawler Station. Construction is expected to start on the revitalisation of Adelaide’s what’s next longest suburban rail corridor – the Gawler line – next year.

> Contract award. The Gawler line was originally built across the years The track upgrade will provide reliable and comfortable 1857 and 1858 to connect Adelaide with the vast services and is the fi rst step towards electrifi cation > Construction to begin in 2010. copper resources of the colonial mining centres of of the Gawler line which is scheduled for completion Kapunda and Burra. in 2013. It also provided passenger services to the new town The stage 1 track upgrade involves upgrading the fast facts of Gawler and since the demise of the mineral booms base layer, improving drainage, installing new gauge > The Gawler line is 42.2 kilometres long. of the eighteen hundreds has reverted to the modern convertible concrete sleepers and replacing or public transport link it is today. refurbishing rail. > It is the only rail route in Adelaide to have no interchange with another line at any Another chapter will be written in its rich history The local community and train commuters will be station except Adelaide. when the fi rst stage of a complete track upgrade kept fully informed about impacts on train schedules gets underway next year. and the local area during the Gawler line upgrade > The upgrade of the Gawler line was as further details become available. brought forward by two years. Stage one will include several kilometres of track upgrade, including connecting the new railcar depot at Dry Creek to the main line. belair line open for business The new and improved Belair line has returned better than ever with train services resuming after a multi-million dollar makeover of the track and several of its level crossings. rail revitalisation Project Director Tim Warren said the project had run rail service to enjoy the smoothness and comfort of belair smoothly and was delivered on time and on budget. the upgraded track.” “This was a very complex project with 16 kilometres Services resumed to the existing Belair line train of new track laid in just under four months,” he said. timetable and commuters can now enjoy upgraded “Even though we had the wettest July in a number stations at Coromandel and Eden Hills with a major fast facts upgrade of Blackwood station expected to be of decades, the Belair line was successfully upgraded Renewal of the Belair line included: with the line reopening on Sunday, 23 August 2009. complete by the end of 2009. > provision of a substitute bus service used “I am grateful to the local community and Belair line Construction of the Belair line made a contribution by approximately 1,500 commuters each customers for being cooperative and patient during to the local economy through jobs creation and weekday (50% of train commuters) closure of the line for construction – they were integral fl ow-on benefi ts for local businesses and suppliers. > installation of 23,500 new gauge- to the success of the project. The project helped create local jobs with over 170 convertible concrete sleepers people working on the construction site, 80% who “In particular, I thank people who changed their travel > bringing in 15,000 tonnes of crushed rock patterns, and I encourage you to come back to the were Adelaide based sub-contractors and labourers. and 55,000 tonnes of ballast for the new base layer > removal of 50,000 tonnes of old soil > laying 32 kilometres of new rail > over 7,000 truck movements next to the 16 kilometre construction site to remove old materials and bring in the new > 120,000 workers hours > up to 175 workers on site to complete the upgrade > up to 30 earthmoving/construction vehicles on site each day. > Train passengers now enjoy a smoother ride on the upgraded Belair rail line. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 15 smoother southern rail sets sail

> Train passengers will enjoy a smoother and more comfortable ride once the Noarlunga line is upgraded.

It’s all go down south with construction started on 27 November 2009 on the seaside Noarlunga line upgrade. The old rail track is being ripped up and replaced with longer lasting concrete sleepers to make the ride rail revitalisation smoother and more comfortable for rail passengers. noarlunga

Project Director Tim Warren said that the initial upgrade “The sections of track chosen to upgrade fi rst are foreshadows greater improvements for Noarlunga line among the highest priority to improve the reliability commuters as it’s the fi rst step towards electrifi cation and comfort of Noarlunga line services – so the what’s happened of the entire line. benefi ts will start fl owing soon. > Environmental management planning. “Once the works are complete in 2013, anyone “This is all starting now, so that we can all enjoy > Survey and geotechnical investigations. travelling the newly electrifi ed train service will the benefi ts of fully electrifi ed railway line in a few > Start of community engagement. experience faster, cleaner and more effi cient services,” years time.” > Delivery of new concrete sleepers. he said. The fi rst stage of works will occur over three “To get to that point there will be some inconvenience weekends in late November and early December > Construction contract awarded. for travellers, as the track will need to be closed for and will involve upgrade of sections of track generally > Construction started 27 November 2009. periods of time. in the Ascot Park to Brighton area and also at the “We are working hard to fi nd the right balance Goodwood junction. between minimising the impact on train commuters Noarlunga line closures will occur between Brighton and what’s next and staging the works in a safe and effi cient manner Adelaide with train services continuing to run between > Three weekend track closures from while overcoming complex technical and engineering Noarlunga Centre and Brighton with a substitute bus 27 November. challenges,” he said. service provided between Brighton and Adelaide. > Substitute bus service between Brighton “We’re considering alternative public transport Timetables and further information about the substitute and Adelaide. options that cause least disruption to people’s bus service is available from Adelaide Metro on travel patterns. 8210 1000 or www.adelaidemetro.com.au > Complete Stage 1 construction in mid December 2009.

for further information please contact: fast facts Construction will involve: northern connector 1300 793 458 gallipoli underpass 1800 334 439 > removing existing track sturt highway upgrade 8343 2966 glenelg tram overpass 1800 733 954 > upgrading the base layer northern expressway 1300 658 621 coast to coast light rail 1800 726 500 > installing over 3,000 new gauge-convertible rail revitalisation 1300 782 454 south road superway 1300 638 789 concrete sleepers > improving stormwater drainage Printed on carbon-neutral accredited paper www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au > refurbishing or replacing rail.

www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Summer 2009/2010 16