METRONET Bayswater Junction hits the switch
Bayswater is becoming a key connection in Perth's rail network, with the new METRONET Forrestfield-Airport Link now formally joined to the wider rail network at Bayswater Junction.
Two 56-hour weekend shutdowns in February and March this year enabled the connection to be made.
Three METRONET train lines will run alongside one another for the first time on Perth's rail network in Bayswater – the Midland Line, the Airport Line and the Morley-Ellenbrook Line.
In December 2017, a section of track on the Midland Line was temporarily relocated to create space for the construction of the Bayswater Junction dive structure. Over the past few months this has been rebuilt and located to its permanent home.
Track laying on the Forrestfield-Airport Link project is proceeding well with 85 per cent completed - almost 17km of track laid in the tunnels and at each end of the line.
More than 100 workers are involved in the rail infrastructure construction for the Forrestfield-Airport Link, which includes track laying and installation of overhead line equipment by mechanics, fitters, riggers, rail traction linesmen, engineers, concrete and track workers.
Rail systems and signalling infrastructure within the tunnels are the next forefront of works, including installation of overhead conductor rail, which provides power to the trains.
The first operational trains are expected to run in the first half of 2022, due to some delays experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and work to ensure safety remained a continual priority on the project. This update is based on the latest advice, provided to the Transport Minister's office.
The METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line, which will run alongside Bayswater Junction is proceeding well with works under way at the Gnangara Road rail crossing and within the Tonkin Gap median.
Construction is also well advanced on the New Bayswater Station project, where the three lines will connect, with earthworks, demolition and piling under way.
The $1.86 billion Forrestfield-Airport Link project is jointly funded by the Morrison Government and Western Australian Government, with the Morrison Government providing $490 million.
Critical work still to be completed include track laying, which is expected to be finished in the middle of this year, and installation of overhead line equipment.
Once the infrastructure is completed, testing and commissioning will be conducted so drivers can become familiarised with the line.
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Transport Minister's office - 6552 5500