The wrecking ball has moved in to clear old buildings and make way for METRONET’s Denny Avenue level crossing removal project.
Meanwhile, the State Government has now also kicked off the official call for expressions of interest for companies to construct the new road under a rail crossing on Davis Road.
Contractors are being sought for the $69 million METRONET project, which will be delivered through two design and construct contracts – one for the rail and bridge portion of the works, and the other for the road and civic infrastructure components.
The contractors will be required to demonstrate how they will minimise road and rail disruptions during construction, to ensure the community can keep moving through the Kelmscott area.
The notoriously dangerous level crossing will be replaced by a road underpass at Davis Road, which will see the rail raised and the road lowered. Work will start later this year.
This will improve the safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians; maintain an important east-west connection between Albany Highway and Railway Avenue; and enable public space improvements in the area.
The demolition of the five State Government-owned houses on Railway and Third avenues by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority are necessary for the project’s construction.
The Denny Avenue level crossing removal will also facilitate some activation of the precinct around Kelmscott Station, including new Principal Shared Path, making Denny Avenue a tree-lined boulevard and creating new public space.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The release of the EOI is another key step for this critical METRONET project in the heart of Kelmscott.
“Each package of works has a different risk profile for the contractor, so the decision was made to split them into two design and construct contracts.
“The removal of the Denny Avenue level crossing will greatly improve the daily lives of drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, improving safety and decreasing road congestion in the area.
“With construction set to start later this year, this project marks the first part of METRONET’s level crossing removal program and commitment to improving safety for our communities.”
