The McGowan Government’s work to remove the Denny Avenue level crossing has taken a major step forward with the launch of a six-week Request for Tender (RFT) process calling for work on the rail component of the important project.
A major election commitment, the $69 million METRONET project will be delivered through two design and construction contracts, one for rail and bridge works and another for the road and civic infrastructure.
Three companies – Downer EDI, Decmil and John Holland – have been approached to provide tender submissions.
The successful tenderer will be tasked with raising more than 800 metres of track and associated infrastructure 170 metres south of the Denny Avenue site, to make way for the new road underpass at Davis Road.
They will have to show they can design and build the infrastructure in a way which minimises the disruption to the rail network and adjacent roads.
The Denny Avenue level crossing removal was prioritised due to road users risking their safety by crossing the tracks while the boom gates are lowering or already down.
Work is expected to start later this year and, when finished, the Davis Road underpass will maintain the important east-west connection by road and improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
The road package tender is expected to open in November.
The McGowan Government committed $415 million in the 2019-20 State Budget towards the removal of another three level crossings on the Armadale line.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The removal of the Denny Avenue crossing is a major METRONET project and the release of this tender is a significant step forward.
“Once complete, this project will not only reduce road congestion, it will also improve the safety of all road users and promote a lively Kelmscott Town Centre.
“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.”
As stated by Armadale MLA Tony Buti:
“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.
“Since being elected to represent the electorate of Armadale in October 2010, I have been advocating for a solution to the Denny Avenue crossing issue.
“I am pleased to see the tender for the rail component has been released and work is expected to begin later this year.”
