Tenders will be released for the detailed design and construction of town centre improvements as part of the first METRONET level crossing removal project at Denny Avenue level crossing in Kelmscott, WA.
WA Premier Mark McGowan said an underpass and elevated rail line at the parallel Davis Road was the preferred solution to remove the level crossing on Denny Avenue—a 170-metre road that has seen 154 crashes in five years.
“Denny Avenue is the most dangerous level crossing on our rail network and it drives locals mad. It’s been talked about for years, and now we’ve got on with the job of providing the solution and the funding to finally fix this problem and eliminate the risk of accidents between trains and cars,” Mr McGowan said.
Federal Member for Hasluck Ken Wyatt said the METRONET team would also consider a range of town centre improvements that can be achieved within the project scope.
“The Davis Road option offers the best solution for train and road operations, public safety, community outcomes and cost, and was chosen following thorough analysis with stakeholders,” Mr Wyatt said.
“Tenders for construction will be released in the coming months, with detailed design and construction to commence shortly after the awarding of the contract next year,” he said.
Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities Paul Fletcher said the Kelmscott community and local commuters would benefit from improved traffic connections between Albany Highway, major retail precincts, schools, community services and transport connections.
“The new east-west road connection at Davis Road will require the rail line to be elevated slightly in this area to accommodate the underpass. A shared path will be built alongside the railway to provide safe pedestrian and cycling connections in the community,” Mr Fletcher said.
Western Australian Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti said the project was the first of four level crossings that would be removed as part of Stage 1 of METRONET.
“Removing the Denny Avenue level crossing and relocating the east-west connection to Davis Road will improve connections in the town centre and mark the start of a revitalisation program around Kelmscott Station,” Ms Saffioti said.
“This work is progressing well, with the METRONET team continuing to assess options in consultation with key stakeholders prior to the Government making a final investment decision.”
The Federal Government has invested $49.6 million towards the $69 million project in partnership with the WA Government.
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