A milestone has been reached for the third stage of the Cold Coast Light Rail project in Queensland, with the first tram having successfully traversed the brand-new tracks on the northern section of the project.
This trial rim was undertaken in readiness for commencement of controlled night-time testing at the end of this month, with the tram travelling along the new section of tracks between Broadbeach South and Miami North stations.
Testing will focus on verifying the performance of key systems, including signalling, communications and station operations to ensure the extension is safe, reliable and ready for passenger services.
The third stage of the Gold Coast Light Rail project includes 6.7 kilometres of new dual-track light rail running from Broadbeach South station to Burleigh Heads, eight new light rail stations and five additional light rail vehicles. John Holland was selected to deliver these works.
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While tram testing is underway in the northern section between Broadbeach and Miami, finishing works are also ongoing along this section, including intersections and pedestrian crossings, footpath installations, landscaping and park upgrades.
Between Miami and Burleigh Heads, work continues to progress track installation, pavement works and landscaping. Testing on this section of the new line is scheduled to begin in the first half of next year ahead of passenger services opening along the full line between Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.
Acting Minister for Transport and Main Roads Sam O’Connor thanked locals for their patience throughout the construction and testing period.
“We’re closer than ever to having the first new light rail opened in our city since 2017 and this testing ensures the safety of everyone who will use or interact with light rail – whether they’re drivers, cyclists, mobility device riders or pedestrians,” O’Connor said.
