Vital upgrades on major Pilbara rail crossings set to go underway

Three key rail crossings in the Pilbara are going to be upgraded to improve safety, and the Australian and Western Australian Governments are partnering with BHP to deliver the works. 

“The Morrison-McCormack Government will continue supporting job-creating, economy-boosting infrastructure as part of our Economic Recovery Plan for Australia, rebuilding our economy to secure Australia’s future. 

“The Government’s record $110 billion transport infrastructure program and $3.5 billion rolling water infrastructure fund will support local jobs and businesses when it is needed most,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said. 

Works will include building two new road-over-rail bridges, realignment of two major intersections as well as the construction of two new roundabouts. The projects will also include removing three road and rail conflicts, improving road safety and transport efficiency. 

“Upgrades to these crossings will improve safety for road and rail users, increase efficiency and reduce travel times while also supporting local jobs. 

“This is a fantastic example of industry and government working together and it complements the $100 million we are spending every month on major transport infrastructure works in regional Western Australia,” Minister for Transport and Planning Rita Saffioti said. 

To date, the Australian Government has invested approximately $900.6 million to deliver projects across Western Australia through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative. 

“By investing in Western Australian projects like these, the Australian Government is connecting agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other transport hubs. 

“Greater connections and access will improve opportunities for greater regional employment and business growth in WA,” Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price said. 

State Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel said that he is pleased to see these projects progress towards construction, which will boost road safety in the region that is considered as the State economy’s “engine room”. 

“These upgrades will make a big difference for those of us who travel through the Pilbara on a daily basis. 

“With works expected to be completed in mid-2022, I can’t wait to see the difference these upgrades will make,” Mr Michel said. 

The first key project will involve the construction of a 28-metre-long road-over-rail bridge that will separate road and rail traffic at the Nelson Point main line level crossing on Great Northern Highway at Port Hedland. 

This project is estimated to be valued at $36 million, which will be jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments and BHP – each contributing $18.2 million, $4.54 million and $13.26 million respectively. 

BHP will also be funding and undertaking the construction of a second bridge over the company’s rail line to the south at Buttweld Road. 

By removing the existing at-grade rail crossings, road users will be able to experience improved safety, faster journeys and those travelling to and from South Hedland will have a better alternative access. 

In addition, BHP will further fund upgrades on two intersections on Powell Road to allow for the closure of the remaining at-grade BHP rail crossing on that said road. 

“BHP’s total contributions will be in excess of $45 million, an investment that will deliver local jobs in the construction phase and lasting benefits to the Hedland community from a safety and a convenience perspective,” BHP General Manager for Rail Operations Warren Wellbeloved said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development; Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Trailer Magazine