The Australasian Railway Association today welcomes the unveiling by the New South Wales Premier Mike Baird, Andrew Constance, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure and Rob Stokes, Minister for Planning, of the light-rail line to be constructed from Parramatta to Strathfield via Sydney Olympic Park.
“The Australasian Railway Association is pleased with the announcement for the Parramatta Light Rail route; the project will work to revitalise Western Sydney,” said Danny Broad Chief Executive Officer of the Australasian Railway Association.
“The proposed 22 km corridor for the Western Sydney light rail line is exactly what the region needs to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. Sports enthusiasts from the region are set to benefit from the improved access to Sydney Olympic Park. The light rail line will breathe life into the Western Sydney area, attracting home owners and business owners alike.
“What’s more, it’s pleasing to see the government considering the use of value capture and voluntary developer levies as a finance model to fund the construction of the light rail project. According to WestLine’s Partnership report this innovative funding method has the potential to raise up to $2.9 billion to support the project. The dollars raised can then be channelled into additional rail lines and infrastructure to support the expected growth for the area.
“It is promising to see a new direction for light rail in Australia; mass transit projects such as the Parramatta Light Rail project are critical to improving the liveability of our cities. The rail industry urges all levels of government to continue collaborating and engaging in forward-looking discussions around Australia’s transport future and project funding arrangements,” said Mr Broad.
About The Australasian Railway Association
The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is the peak body representing all passenger, freight, track operators and the wider rail supply industry in Australia and New Zealand.
Our fundamental purpose is to create an environment that will permit the Australasian rail industry to prosper. When issues arise that affect the whole industry, the ARA takes the lead facilitating an industry response.
The ARA is actively involved in the development of rail policy to ensure the industry's views are represented.
As well as shaping policy in the areas of passenger, freight, rail safety regulatory reform, the environment, technology and research, the ARA is also involved in programs aimed at improving the productivity, capacity and overall safety of the Australasian rail industry.
Our vision
The Australasian Rail Industry's vision is that rail will become the transport mode of choice because of its economic, environmental and social advantages. In achieving this we aim to provide enhanced passenger services for our communities and have more trains carrying increased volumes of bulk freight and goods.
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