Media Release: Designer revealed for Denny Avenue METRONET level crossing removal
The design for the first METRONET level crossing removal project at the dangerous Denny Avenue level crossing in Kelmscott in Western Australia, has now been revealed.
Western Australian 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.
“This is another METRONET state election commitment being delivered. One that will improve safety, enhance the town centre and provide a boost to local jobs during construction,” Mr McGowan said.
“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.”
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.
“This project is part of the Turnbull Government’s ongoing commitment to improve safety and tackle congestion on Western Australian roads. This includes $3.2 billion in the 2018 Budget for major projects, including METRONET, expected to generate over 20,000 jobs across the state.”
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.
“It is a major connection for communities such as Clifton Hills and Roleystone to the local high school. For decades this level crossing has been an issue, and I recall the challenges of crossing it when I travelled to Kelmscott Senior High School from Roleystone.
“It also aligns with the long-held vision to improve the overall community amenity and streetscape of the Kelmscott town centre.
“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.”
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.”
The 2018−19 State Budget also included funding to begin planning for the removal of the three other level crossings identified as priority projects – Caledonian Avenue (Maylands), Oats Street (Carlisle) and Wharf Street (Cannington).
The Australian Government has committed $49.6 million toward the $69 million project in partnership with the Western Australian Government.
