Industry briefed on Forrestfield-Airport Link
The Forrestfield-Airport Link project reached another milestone today with an official industry briefing provided to potential proponents.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the briefing to more than 200 attendees was the first step in a process to select a private sector proponent to design and construct the $2 billion rail line to Perth’s eastern suburbs via Perth Airport.
The Forrestfield-Airport Link will create a 20-minute journey from Perth’s eastern suburbs to the city and will feature three stations - Airport West (Belmont), Consolidated Airport and Forrestfield.
It will branch off the existing Midland line near Bayswater and run underground for eight kilometres in twin-bored tunnels beneath the Swan River and Perth Airport.
Mr Nalder said the briefing covered the project overview, geotechnical and tunnelling aspects, as well as the contract and procurement timeframe.
“This is an exceptional project to open up Perth’s eastern suburbs to a new major public transport corridor,” he said.
“Today’s briefing reasserts the State Government’s commitment to the project. Once complete, the new rail line will change the way people get to and from Perth Airport and the eastern suburbs.
“The briefing will equip potential proponents with information to decide if they will bid to design and construct this landmark public transport project. Industry will also be asked their views on the project and procurement process.”
The Minister said Golder Associates was awarded a tender in August to undertake further geotechnical testing of the planned route.
“The next major milestone is the start of the Expressions of Interest period early next year, with the contract to be awarded in mid-2016 and the first trains expected to operate in 2020,” he said.
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