Major works are officially underway on the $420m Stage 2 extension of the Gold Coast Light Rail project.
CPB Contractors are designing and building the project, and the Qld Govt and GoldLinQ are working in partnership to deliver the extension in time for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Bulk earthworks and excavation are now underway to prepare for the installation of the light rail track. The project will support up to 1,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction and operation.
GoldLinQ are committed to supporting local participation, with Chairman John Witheriff stating that "This will be a local job built by local workers and contractors."About 140 local businesses have already registered on CPB Contractors industry register and this is expected to continue growing - register now if you haven't already!
Helensvale Light and Heavy rail stations. Source: GoldLinQ
Perhaps the most important aspect is the improved ability to travel beween Brisbane and the Gold coast, with Helensvale becoming the vital connection in a one-transfer journey.
As part of Stage 2, Helensvale sation will be the first public transport station in Australia to integrate all modes of passenger transport, with heavy rail (trains), light rail (trams), buses and taxis set to be housed within the same station footprint.
During the Commonwealth Games, the light rail system will be able to support the movement of up to 3,000 people per hour from Helensvale into Southport, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Four new trams will be required, bringing the total number needed for Stages 1 & 2 to 18.
Beyond the Commonwealth Games, the new infrastructure will support the population and economic growth expected on the Gold Coast.
Source: Qld Govt