Station Upgrades

[kram0]

Have the incompetent folks at QR/Qld Government made any further progress on the upgrade at South Bank station?

The construction of the three towers is well and truly finished. The last time I travelled through the station there were still tents setup for shade. 

[brissypete]

Have the incompetent folks at QR/Qld Government made any further progress on the upgrade at South Bank station?

The construction of the three towers is well and truly finished. The last time I travelled through the station there were still tents setup for shade. 

The tents have been replaced by equally temporary looking metal shelters.

Basically nothing has changed, it's still a crappy looking station especially compared to South Brisbane just down the road.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

[verbatim9]

Have the incompetent folks at QR/Qld Government made any further progress on the upgrade at South Bank station?

The construction of the three towers is well and truly finished. The last time I travelled through the station there were still tents setup for shade. 

The tents have been replaced by equally temporary looking metal shelters.

Basically nothing has changed, it's still a crappy looking station especially compared to South Brisbane just down the road.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

This is tragic for a major inner city station. I guess the upgrades will come along with the related Brisbane Metro upgrades to the adjacent Busway.

[timh]

Have the incompetent folks at QR/Qld Government made any further progress on the upgrade at South Bank station?

The construction of the three towers is well and truly finished. The last time I travelled through the station there were still tents setup for shade. 

The tents have been replaced by equally temporary looking metal shelters.

Basically nothing has changed, it's still a crappy looking station especially compared to South Brisbane just down the road.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

This is tragic for a major inner city station. I guess the upgrades will come along with the related Brisbane Metro upgrades to the adjacent Busway.

As far as I'm aware there aren't any major works slated for South Bank station to go with Brisbane Metro

[BrizCommuter]

"allowing for capacity increases". More info required!

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/QueenslandRail/status/1305691858153029633

[kram0]

Do we know if they went with the half baked Queensland solution or full height/full length platforms?

[Cazza]

Do we know if they went with the half baked Queensland solution or full height/full length platforms?

I like your optimism...

https://www.queenslandrail.com.au/Community/Projects/Documents/FINAL%20Cannon%20Hill%20Concept%20flyer%20Mar19%20UPDATED%20PHOTO%20040319.pdf
"raised section of platform at assisted boarding points"

[mufreight]

On the subject of station upgrades the raising of platform heights is another example of the stupidity of the minister in having Transport and Main Roads have control of infrastructure for the railways, TMR were responsible for the NGR trains which are now being modified to make them Disability compliant at a cost of millions yet these same shortsighted "experts" are responsible for upgrading stations yet Dinmore and Graceville and Darra have only had the centre of the platforms raised while the guards are now positioned at the rear of the trains. 
Logic would be that if these "experts" were competent all of the platforms being upgraded would be raised for the full length of the platforms and if they were only partially raising platforms they would raise from the middle of the platform to the rear of the platform to cater for the NGR trains that they were responsible for ordering.
If this is a further example of the competence of TMR in managing infrastructure and rollingstock needs then the sooner the government and the Minister returns the oversight and management of railway infrastructure and the procurement of rollingstock to Queensland Rail where competent staff who know what a railway is can meet the needs of the Railways.

[verbatim9]

Pretty much all the stations that were not earmarked for full.raising get centre raising. The centre raising is there because it aligns with the disability compliant area of the new trains.

[kram0]

Half baked upgrades show there level of incompetence and these 'experts' should be sacked.

F&$ken useless.

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> New and improved train station one step closer

A more accessible East Ipswich train station is a step closer with main construction set to start on the multi-million upgrade project.

The new station will be located 120 meters east of the current station.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said the start of construction signalled a milestone in the State Government's commitment to provide seamless, accessible rail travel for Ipswich locals.

The upgrade is part of State Government's $357 million investment to improve stations across the southeast.

"Minor works have already been completed which include upgrades to overhead line infrastructure, telecommunications cabling works, and ongoing station design work," Ms Howard said.

"Fencing has gone up and site compounds have been established, allowing the contractor, Hutchinson Builders, to begin main construction."

Ms Howard said the project will improve safety and accessibility and support 250 jobs, contributing to Queensland's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key features of the new station include: a modern-standard footbridge with lifts; fully-raised platforms to provide easier access on and off the train; hearing aid loops and tactile platform surfaces; a new bicycle enclosure; accessible parking; and improved security through upgraded lighting and CCTV.

Customers will be able to access the station from new entrances on Merton and Coronation streets.

Ms Howard said the first stage of major works required the removal of some non-native trees inside the rail corridor on Merton Street.

"While some non-native trees needed to be removed to enable the safe construction of the new station, the project team has worked to retain the native trees and the upgraded precinct will be revegetated with appropriate native species," she said.

Ms Howard said the contractor's increased presence on site meant residents near the station may notice an increase in lighting and noise, as well as additional vehicle movements.

The majority of construction will be carried out from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Residents surrounding the station will be provided with advance notice of construction activities likely to cause impacts, including after-hours work.

For more information on the East Ipswich station accessibility upgrade, visit www.queenslandrail.com.au

[kram0]

Good news. If only they looked at the bigger picture for the other stations that are yet to commence upgrade works, such as Cannon Hill.

So inconsistent with delivery.

[Gazza]

https://lancemccallum.com.au/news/media-releases/38m-for-bundamba-train-station-upgrade/

25 September 2020

A $38 million upgrade of Bundamba train station will deliver improved parking, disability access, platform alignment and safety.

State Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum announced the investment today, as the Palaszczuk Government launched the new accessible transport advisory council to consult on road and transport upgrades across Queensland.

"I've been listening to feedback from our local community, including those who signed my online petition calling for an upgrade, and this is a real win for Bundamba commuters," Mr McCallum said.

"The upgrade will include a new footbridge with lifts, raised platforms, accessible carparks and a new bike enclosure.

"It will create 250 local jobs during construction, and follows upgrades at Redbank and Ebbw Vale stations.

"We're committed to making Queensland's publicly-owned train network accessible for everyone – we've recently launched new services on our local Ipswich and Springfield lines – and I thank Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey for being so responsive in his continued support of our local community."

Mr Bailey said the government's record $23 billion transport and roads program was supporting 21,500 Queensland jobs.

"Queenslanders have stepped up when it comes to managing the health impacts of COVID-19, and as a result we've been able to get on with delivering better public transport as part of our plan for economic recovery," Mr Bailey said.

"Building roads and transport doesn't just benefit the community when it's done, it also supports jobs during construction and offers improved connectivity to work, school and essential services.

"With funding for Bundamba now locked in it means we can get the ball rolling on the necessary planning that needs to be done, consult with the community on what they'd like to see, and get shovels in the ground as soon as possible."

[ozbob]

Queensland Times --> Government to spend $38 million on train station upgrade

THE State Government will spend $38 million upgrading an Ipswich train station to improve parking, disability access and safety, while adding a bike enclosure.

Bundamba MP Lance McCallum said 250 "local jobs" would be created during the overhaul of Bundamba station.

It comes as an independent advisory council was established by Annastacia Palaszczuk's government to advise it on accessibility for transport and road projects across the state.

"I've been listening to feedback from our local community, including those who signed my online petition calling for an upgrade, and this is a real win for Bundamba commuters," Mr McCallum said.

"The upgrade will include a new footbridge with lifts, raised platforms, accessible carparks and a new bike enclosure.

"(It) follows upgrades at Redbank and Ebbw Vale stations.

"We're committed to making Queensland's publicly-owned train network accessible for everyone.

"We've recently launched new services on our local Ipswich and Springfield lines."

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the State Government was spending a record $23 billion on transport and roads.

"Queenslanders have stepped up when it comes to managing the health impacts of COVID-19, and as a result we've been able to get on with delivering better public transport as part of our plan for economic recovery," he said.

"Building roads and transport doesn't just benefit the community when it's done, it also supports jobs during construction and offers improved connectivity to work, school and essential services.

"With funding for Bundamba now locked in it means we can get the ball rolling on the necessary planning that needs to be done, consult with the community on what they'd like to see, and get shovels in the ground as soon as possible."

[Gazza]

I decided to make it a bit clearer where in the Suburban network where the job still needs to be done.
I've rubbed out stations that are upgraded, have commitments or have been announced.

Cleveland line appears to be the most neglected (As per usual)

46 stations still to be done.

A few comments:

10 outright have no access.
Yandina is one, which makes no sense because its a side platform that could be fixed with a ramp and hump very cheaply (45)

I'd support the closures of Holmview, Bindha rather than spending $20m each. (43)

Northgate would be an easy win if they just installed one extra lift, since currently lift access is only from one side  which prevents it being classed as fully accessible (42)

Less clear, but I'd also support Gailes, Trinder Park and Wynnum too, if they were accompanied by major parking upgrades /slight relocations of nearby stations (39)

4 of the Cleveland line stations would presumably be done as part of the duplication (35)

It's unclear why the level crossing access at the three outer Rosewood stations doesn't comply, but again, these stations should not be expensive to bring up to code  (32)

It's still going to take $1b of investment to finish the job....I wish they'd just commit to the lump sum.

2032 is the date of compliance, so it really needs to be 4 per year happening.

[achiruel]

Surely it's Trinder Park that should be moved rather than the adjacent stations? It's far too close to Woodridge.

[Andrew]

Surely it's Trinder Park that should be moved rather than the adjacent stations? It's far too close to Woodridge.

That should be looked at. Those curves sure slow things down. If a slightly better alignment could be found, as well as a level crossing removal, it could be the overall best option. Not holding my breath they'll go for it though...

Schrödinger's Bus: Early, on-time and late, simultaneously, until you see it...

[Gazza]

Surely it's Trinder Park that should be moved rather than the adjacent stations? It's far too close to Woodridge.

That should be looked at. Those curves sure slow things down. If a slightly better alignment could be found, as well as a level crossing removal, it could be the overall best option. Not holding my breath they'll go for it though...

Schrödinger's Bus: Early, on-time and late, simultaneously, until you see it...

If it were up to me I would fully move Trinder park up to Compton Road

[ozbob]

^^

Thanks Gazza, that is a very good map.

[InclusionMoves]

Thanks Gazza for the work. Certainly not the rosy picture they like to portray with throwing out the wild dollar figures to impress. Just one note. Its not just about the 2032 compliance date but the 2017 and 2022 compliance dates too. Dig into that and you will see they could be well behind already.

Geoff

I decided to make it a bit clearer where in the Suburban network where the job still needs to be done.
I've rubbed out stations that are upgraded, have commitments or have been announced.

Cleveland line appears to be the most neglected (As per usual)

46 stations still to be done.

A few comments:

10 outright have no access.
Yandina is one, which makes no sense because its a side platform that could be fixed with a ramp and hump very cheaply (45)

I'd support the closures of Holmview, Bindha rather than spending $20m each. (43)

Northgate would be an easy win if they just installed one extra lift, since currently lift access is only from one side  which prevents it being classed as fully accessible (42)

Less clear, but I'd also support Gailes, Trinder Park and Wynnum too, if they were accompanied by major parking upgrades /slight relocations of nearby stations (39)

4 of the Cleveland line stations would presumably be done as part of the duplication (35)

It's unclear why the level crossing access at the three outer Rosewood stations doesn't comply, but again, these stations should not be expensive to bring up to code  (32)

It's still going to take $1b of investment to finish the job....I wish they'd just commit to the lump sum.

2032 is the date of compliance, so it really needs to be 4 per year happening.

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

RAIL Back on Track calls for an audit and a $1b fund to finish the job of Citytrain station accessibility upgrades

20th October 2020

Currently, there are still 50 Citytrain stations that are not fully accessible on the SEQ rail network and that do not yet have funding commitments or work underway. Stations like Taringa, Gaythorne, Wynnum, Trinder Park, Sherwood and more. See reference 1.

Currently the Cleveland line is the most neglected, with 11 stations out of 18 in need of upgrades.

The non compliant stations lack lifts and platforms level with the carriage doors, making life difficult for the disabled, those with injuries, the elderly and families with prams. This lack of accessibility excludes many members of our community from public transport and creates unnecessary hardship.

As far as possible, these upgrades should be designed to allow passengers to access rail services independently without the need for staff assistance.

It costs around $20m per station to do these upgrades, so if a firm commitment were made for a dedicated $1b fund we could finish the job and give SEQ the accessible rail network it deserves.

This cost of this committment is not too different in cost to the various segments of motorway upgrades that have been announced this election campaign, but the difference is $1b spent here will make a real difference to peoples lives.

We call on the Queensland Auditor General to urgently complete an audit to gauge the true extent of the issues. The station compliance deadline is 31st December 2022 (2).

The Victorian Auditor-General's Office recently reported an audit on the lack of accessibility on the Melbourne tram network, highlighting the compliance deadline of 31st December 2022 for the infrastructure (3).

If the current slow rate of completion for station upgrades continues, the Government will not meet its obligation to the community under the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport Act (2002).

References:

1. Stations that are not accessible on Citytrain network
https://backontrack.org/docs/dda/outstandingstations_oct20.jpg

2. Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002  https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2011C00213  parts 33 34.

3. VAGO: Accessibility of Tram Services
https://www.audit.vic.gov.au/report/accessibility-tram-services?section=

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track https://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Facebook ...

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/railbotforum/status/1318413515644751872

[Gazza]

Is it still called CityTrain by the way?

[ozbob]

Yes, back in vogue. 

eg. Citytrain on-time running (24/7 force majeure adjusted results)

https://www.queenslandrail.com.au/aboutus/ourperformance/service-punctuality-and-reliability

It is a useful descriptor as it defines the segment of Queensland Rail that is being referred to.

[Gazza]

Today I learned!

I thought it had disappeared when we got the red QueenslandRail branding.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/railbotforum/status/1318575129664761858

[Gazza]

Trying to establish a timeline of the past 10 years...any im missing?

2011 – South Brisbane*
2012 -
2013 – Narangba, Sandgate
2014 - Geebung
2015 -
2016 - Wulkuraka
2017 – Alderley, Newmarket, Dinmore, Graceville, Nambour
2018 -
2019 – Pomona, Eumundi, Cooran
2020 – Morayfield, Boondall, Strathpine

*Wasn't sure whether to include this because it already had lifts, but the platform works were significant.

[red dragin]

Morayfield was just completed this year. Dakabin won't be until next year.

[Gazza]

Less than 2 per year basically.

[kram0]

I was told Southbank was getting done at the completion of the hotel, commercial and apartment development.

Still nothing.......

[ozbob]

List here Gazza > https://www.queenslandrail.com.au/Community/Projects/Pages/Stationaccessibilityupgradeprogram.aspx

Some are missing on your list.

[Gazza]

I was told Southbank was getting done at the completion of the hotel, commercial and apartment development.

Still nothing.......

Fixed

Stations like Southbank, Eagle Junction, Milton etc are not counted because they were mostly cosmetic and already featured lifts.

[brissypete]

Nothing further has happened at Fairfield since the work officially commenced apart from installing temporary buildings on Platform 1 a few months ago. No wonder it's going to take up to 2 years to complete if they don't do anything for long periods.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

[kram0]

Nothing further has happened at Fairfield since the work officially commenced apart from installing temporary buildings on Platform 1 a few months ago. No wonder it's going to take up to 2 years to complete if they don't do anything for long periods.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

The install of those temporary buildings was solely done so Mark Bailey can say work has 'started' on the upgrade of the station prior to the election and he can have a photo with the media.

[brissypete]

Nothing further has happened at Fairfield since the work officially commenced apart from installing temporary buildings on Platform 1 a few months ago. No wonder it's going to take up to 2 years to complete if they don't do anything for long periods.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

The install of those temporary buildings was solely done so Mark Bailey can say work has 'started' on the upgrade of the station prior to the election and he can have a photo with the media.

Haha I was thinking along those lines too, after all it was a promise at the last election.

Sent from my G8141 using Tapatalk

[Gazza]

In fairness, let's look at what we could expect to be done by 2024

Dakabin, Cannon Hill, Loganlea, East Ipswich, Buranda, Albion, Auchenflower, Dutton Park, Fairfield, Yeronga, Moorooka, Rocklea, Bundamba, Burpengary, Banyo, Wooloowin.

That's 16 in 4 years, so a bit of an improvement, but still not fast enough considering the years of notice they've had.

[achiruel]

If it were up to me I would fully move Trinder park up to Compton Road

Not sure that's viable. There's quite a long rail bridge over Compton Rd, and there's very little walk-up patronage in the area as well. I'd rather have it around the intersection of Nyanza St, Station Rd & Alexander St. This would still permit a lot of curve easing (provided the Government was prepared to resume quite a few properties, some of which they probably own anyway), and it would improve access to the train for residents in the northern half of Woodridge.

[verbatim9]

Surely it's Trinder Park that should be moved rather than the adjacent stations? It's far too close to Woodridge.

That should be looked at. Those curves sure slow things down. If a slightly better alignment could be found, as well as a level crossing removal, it could be the overall best option. Not holding my breath they'll go for it though...

Schrödinger's Bus: Early, on-time and late, simultaneously, until you see it...

If it were up to me I would fully move Trinder park up to Compton Road

Write a submission to TMR with the suggestion for a relocated station.