Welcome to the December project update
Recent weeks have seen a lot of progress in getting the tunnels ready for the first test train to run its maiden voyage. Infrastructure to power the trains and stations is nearing completion, commissioning is underway for the pipes carrying firefighting water, 850 of 1700 tunnel emergency lights have been installed and connected, and the signalling systems have exceeded the 90% completion rate.
While the rail has been in place since July, one of the final touches, profile grinding, is happening as we speak. A truck-mounted grinding machine travels up to five times across each section, grinding at several angles to ensure that irregularities are removed from the track (see photo of profiled track above).
The final shutdown of the Midland Line, required to connect the many complex systems of the Airport Line to the wider network, is planned for mid-February. Following this will be several stages – such as test train running, driver training, and practical completion of all associated infrastructure – before passenger services can commence.
Bayswater portal building ready for next phase
At the western end of the Airport Line tunnels, the Bayswater Junction portal building is about to enter the commissioning phase. During this phase tests are run to confirm that all systems and components of the building operate as per requirements.
Outside of the portal building a large pole has recently been erected. The pole is required to ensure radio communication across the project performs seamlessly.
Also seamless is the airflow between the three tunnel ventilation fans on the top level of the portal building and the tunnel entries, with the duct work now complete.
Leafy designs at Redcliffe Station
Suspended over the eastern void between the concourse and platform levels, aluminium branches and leaves have been installed as part of the public artwork at Redcliffe Station. Passengers will be able to view this colourful and organic focal point within the building architecture from different angles.
Room for creative art of a different kind will be provided in the form of large advertising screens, recently installed at platform level. As quickly as they went in, they were covered up with metal panels for protection during the final stages of construction.
At the nearby 500-bay car park hard landscaping and permanent fence installation is underway.
Native landscaping at Airport Central Station
Work on garden beds along the southern façade has commenced at Airport Central Station. Seven mature ‘Snow Queen’ coolibah majes-trees will eventually rule the domain, loyally (and royally) supported by grass trees and banksias, with the remainder of the commonality made up of native plants such as kangaroo paws, buttercups and cottonheads.
Inside the station building, tiling works are underway on the steel stairs connecting the concourse and platform levels, and vinyl flooring has been laid within the mezzanine (back of house) area.
The first lot of information screens has also been installed, ready to assist passengers with their journey.
Cycling to High Wycombe Station an easy option
Currently under construction at High Wycombe Station are two bike shelters, which will provide convenient, secure, and free parking for 180 two-wheelers. Once operational, simply register your SmartRider for bike shelters and choose up to two shelter locations to gain access. It's as easy as riding a bike!
Fencing is being installed around the two storm water basins within the station precinct. This concludes work for the basin next to the multi-deck car park, where planting of tube stock was completed in November.
More finished looks for emergency egress shafts
At Wright Crescent Emergency Egress Shaft 'sandscaping’ works are underway. With the cycle path asphalted, topsoil placed, and geotextiles installed on the batter ready for planting, the area is quickly losing its pale cream to golden caramel colour scheme.
Removal of staff offices and crib rooms has started at Airport West Emergency Egress Shaft to make room for permanent fencing and other reinstatement works.
This is our last project update for 2021. We look forward to taking you through the final stages of the Forrestfield-Airport Link project in the new year.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish you a wonderful and safe festive season.