Post Covid-19 Infrastructure pipeline

[SteelPan]

https://www.racq.com.au/Live/Articles/NS-280420--RACQs-infrastructure-wishlist-to-kickstart-economic-recovery

Includes public transport proposals:
> Beerburrum to Nambour duplication
> Springfield to Ripley and Ipswich Rail Extension
> Manly to Cleveland Rail Duplication
> Pimpama, Helensvale North and Merrimac Rail Stations
> Salisbury to Beaudesert Passenger Rail

At least some stuff's getting a run out there....not that we're hearing much from the State Govt...no surprises there!   

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> $1.8b infrastructure boost as QLD eyes $80bn project pipeline

QUEENSLAND has an $80 billion pipeline of "catalytic" projects on the table to kickstart the economy as the Morrison Government prepares to ramp up infrastructure spending around the country.

Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Michael McCormack will today announce a $1.8 billion funding boost for local councils to accelerate infrastructure upgrades and maintenance programs, funnelling money into struggling communities.

"This package will improve road safety and bolster the resilience of our local road networks, which will get Australians home sooner and safer, no matter where they live," Mr McCormack said.

It comes as RACQ and Queensland and Federal oppositions call on governments to seize on the need to turbocharge the economy by bringing forward major projects such as the $70 billion Southeast Queensland fast rail and $2.4 billion Coomera Connector, also known as the second M1.

RACQ head of public policy Rebecca Michael said the pandemic had created an opportunity to push ahead with "catalytic infrastructure" that would generate economic growth and fast track the recovery.

"When we look at roads ... its not hyperbole to say they are the lifeblood of Queensland, if we invest in roads they support supply chains, support freight and they support tourism and we need growth in those areas if we are to see sustained economic recovery from this," she said.

But she said any spending needed to balance big projects with the "quick wins" from often-overlooked but vital maintenance and road-sealing projects.

Other major projects that could be brought forward include the $2.1 billion Moreton Connector, $1 billion Ipswich rail connection and $550 million Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication.

BMD group executive director of operations Scott Power said any disruption to the company's order book, which includes the Sumner Rd interchange currently under construction, would likely be delayed months but it had been heartening to hear governments talk about using civil construction to help rebuild the economy.

"There's been a lot of talk in the industry having a pipeline because that's what we alway use to plan and invest in our people and our business," he said.

Labor's transport, infrastructure and regional development spokeswoman Catherine King said it was time to start "transformative, nation-building projects that have helped us escape the recessions of the past".

"Projects like high speed rail are big undertakings, but they would be transformative for Australia, and in particular Brisbane and southern Queensland," she said.

Mr McCormack, the Deputy Prime Minister, said he was working with Queensland Transport Minister Mark Bailey to identify projects that could be accelerated.

"We want shovel-ready projects so we can get money out the door," he said.

"One way out of the economic malaise in which we've found ourselves is through infrastructure because it flows on right throughout the economy. If you've got people building roads or working on rail lines or indeed building dams, which is something I'm very keen on ... you've got work happening in the economy, the labour force is active and it flows right on through the communities."

On Tuesday Mr Bailey announced a $400 million stimulus package of new and accelerated road projects.

"The vast majority of this $400 million will go directly to our regions, supporting 360 jobs and helping us pave the way to recovery," he said.

The state government had also previously committed with the federal government to bring forward $185 million of safety, maintenance and road sealing works on key inland freight routes.

And there is a $5 billion pipeline of road projects due to start before the end of 2020 that are projected to create nearly 5000 jobs collectively.

LNP Leader Deb Frecklington called for the second M1 to be fast-tracked and has committed $550 million to get "shovels in the ground" if she wins the election in October.

"Fast-tracking transport infrastructure projects, both big and small, will provide immediate benefits with new construction jobs and deliver long-term economic benefits through less congestion," she said.

Infrastructure experts said it was unlikely mega-projects such as the Inland Rail, which would link Brisbane to Melbourne, and Cross River Rail could be accelerated due to their "scale and scope".

IN THE PIPELINE

● $70bn SEQ fast rail network

● $2.4bn Coomera Connector (M2)

● $2.1bn Moreton Connector

● $1bn Ipswich rail connection to Springfield via Ripley

● $550M Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication

● Salisbury to Beaudesert passenger rail - no business case

● Increase Gold Coast line capacity - no business case

[timh]

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[ozbob]

[Gazza]

Minister Michael McCormack will today announce a $1.8 billion funding boost for local councils to accelerate infrastructure upgrades and maintenance programs, funnelling money into struggling communities.

How do we know that the $1.8b wont just to go mainly to National and Liberal electorates they want to win?

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

$7b sounds more realistic.

[kram0]

The other problem, very few projects on the rail front are shovel ready as the state government have put all their eggs in the Cross River Rail basket.

This will lead to yet more delays while the southern states and WA power ahead with rail infrastructure.......

[Fares_Fair]

There is a Fast Rail Business Case for the Sunshine Coast.
It has been with the National Faster Rail Agency since January 2020.

[timh]

There is a Fast Rail Business Case for the Sunshine Coast.
It has been with the National Faster Rail Agency since January 2020.

Is it available to the public? If so, where can I find it? And if not, why is it not publicly available?

[ozbob]

There is a Fast Rail Business Case for the Sunshine Coast.
It has been with the National Faster Rail Agency since January 2020.

Is it available to the public? If so, where can I find it? And if not, why is it not publicly available?

Government has to consider the advice of the National Faster Rail Agency once business case assessed by them. 

Nothing public at this time.

[kram0]

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Courier Mail have revised the article and put the price tag at $20b. See below list.

IN THE PIPELINE
● $20bn SEQ fast rail network

● $2.4bn Coomera Connector (M2)

● $2.1bn Moreton Connector

● $1bn Ipswich rail connection to Springfield via Ripley

● $550M Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication

● Salisbury to Beaudesert passenger rail - no business case

● Increase Gold Coast line capacity - no business case

[timh]

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Courier Mail have revised the article and put the price tag at $20b. See below list.

IN THE PIPELINE
● $20bn SEQ fast rail network

● $2.4bn Coomera Connector (M2)

● $2.1bn Moreton Connector

● $1bn Ipswich rail connection to Springfield via Ripley

● $550M Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication

● Salisbury to Beaudesert passenger rail - no business case

● Increase Gold Coast line capacity - no business case

That number makes much more sense. Still, did they just pull it out of their arse? Where is the number coming from? Why is the fast rail program "in the pipeline"? Makes no sense at all.

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[verbatim9]

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Courier Mail have revised the article and put the price tag at $20b. See below list.

IN THE PIPELINE
● $20bn SEQ fast rail network

● $2.4bn Coomera Connector (M2)

● $2.1bn Moreton Connector

● $1bn Ipswich rail connection to Springfield via Ripley

● $550M Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication

● Salisbury to Beaudesert passenger rail - no business case

● Increase Gold Coast line capacity - no business case

That number makes much more sense. Still, did they just pull it out of their arse? Where is the number coming from? Why is the fast rail program "in the pipeline"? Makes no sense at all.

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Federal Government is doing a business case for fast rail. At the moment they are busy with one from Brisbane to Toowoomba. They would of liaised with the State Government TMR over estimated costs.
6.65 billion for each electrified fast rail route. (Sunny Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba).

[ozbob]

These are the fast rail projects presently being assessed.  Toowoomba is not one.

https://www.nfra.gov.au/projects#faster

[timh]

Where the hell did they get the figure that the SEq fast rail is $70bn? And how is it "in the pipeline" when we don't yet have a business case??

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Courier Mail have revised the article and put the price tag at $20b. See below list.

IN THE PIPELINE
● $20bn SEQ fast rail network

● $2.4bn Coomera Connector (M2)

● $2.1bn Moreton Connector

● $1bn Ipswich rail connection to Springfield via Ripley

● $550M Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication

● Salisbury to Beaudesert passenger rail - no business case

● Increase Gold Coast line capacity - no business case

That number makes much more sense. Still, did they just pull it out of their arse? Where is the number coming from? Why is the fast rail program "in the pipeline"? Makes no sense at all.

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

The Federal Government is doing a business case for fast rail. At the moment they are busy with one from Brisbane to Toowoomba. They would of liaised with the State Government TMR over estimated costs.
6.65 billion for each electrified fast rail route. (Sunny Coast, Gold Coast and Toowoomba).

It doesn't excuse crappy reporting. Unless the Murdoch papers know something we don't (same story reported in Herald Sun etc), then they're literally pulling numbers out of thin air for a headline. The existence of a business case currently under development doesn't confirm anything

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[verbatim9]

These are the fast rail projects presently being assessed.  Toowoomba is not one.

https://www.nfra.gov.au/projects#faster

There is still this in the pipeline

https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/projects/ProjectDetails.aspx?Project_id=097134-17QLD-NRP

[verbatim9]

^^Seperate project and funding I guess?

[timh]

^^Seperate project and funding I guess?

I can't remember exactly which document I read it in, but I believe it was the NFRA Prospectus. Anyways, in said document it said that the Toowoomba passenger rail project would not be "Fast Rail". If I find it I'll try link.

Disclaimer for you V: I am supportive of Toowoomba passenger rail don't worry. I know you are a big proponent!

[verbatim9]

^^Seperate project and funding I guess?

I can't remember exactly which document I read it in, but I believe it was the NFRA Prospectus. Anyways, in said document it said that the Toowoomba passenger rail project would not be "Fast Rail". If I find it I'll try link.

Disclaimer for you V: I am supportive of Toowoomba passenger rail don't worry. I know you are a big proponent!

Re Toowoomba line. It wouldn't be worth it for them to spend all that money for a sub standard non electrified service that doesn't integrate properly into network. If they want to compete with the coach services?

You would want fast acceleration out of stations to ensure improved travel times. Stops at Helidon Gatton Rosewood, Ipswich, Redbank Darra and Indooroopilly to make it profitable.
I don't think a diesel train has that capability of fast acceleration out of stations like an electric alternative has.

There might be issues with ventilation at certain stations like Ipswich and Toowong. Also ongoing issues with overall pollution control measures and cost of imported fuels.

I can see beyond Toowoomba retaining diesel services, but between Toowoomba and Brisbane electrification does make business sense.

[red dragin]

The initial outlay for the overhead supply (plus modifications to the signally as the track is the return path) would prohibit any electrification to Toowoomba. Would probably cost more than a single train set.

I'd rather see an extra service or two, than electrification. The trains are only going to be two or three cars at most in length, so should accelerate pretty quickly anyway.

[verbatim9]

The initial outlay for the overhead supply (plus modifications to the signally as the track is the return path) would prohibit any electrification to Toowoomba. Would probably cost more than a single train set.

I'd rather see an extra service or two, than electrification. The trains are only going to be two or three cars at most in length, so should accelerate pretty quickly anyway.

If that is the case? Might as well stick with the bus, faster with a better frequency.

[Gazza]

They can be both?

Just use something like the Velocitys in Victoria. 160km/h diesel with no need for electrification.

160km/h is about as fast as you can go on narrow gauge anyway.

However, NSW is going one better with the XPT replacements that can run in Bi Mode
https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2019/Fact%20sheet%20-%20Bi-mode%20technology%20-%20September%202019.pdf

So personally I would just use Bi Mode locomotives, run on electric to Rosewood (Which is not bad, almost halfway!)
, then diesel the rest of the way, however i would look at electrifying the final section up the range in the tunnel since electric is better for climbing hills.

It wouldn't be worth electrifying the whole way.

The whole point of passenger rail to Toowoomba being viable is that you are able to piggyback on someone elses infrastructure, so you save cost by only paying for rolling stock and station upgrades.

If you insist on electrifying, that's hundreds of millions extra.

[timh]

They can be both?

Just use something like the Velocitys in Victoria. 160km/h diesel with no need for electrification.

160km/h is about as fast as you can go on narrow gauge anyway.

However, NSW is going one better with the XPT replacements that can run in Bi Mode
https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2019/Fact%20sheet%20-%20Bi-mode%20technology%20-%20September%202019.pdf

So personally I would just use Bi Mode locomotives, run on electric to Rosewood (Which is not bad, almost halfway!)
, then diesel the rest of the way, however i would look at electrifying the final section up the range in the tunnel since electric is better for climbing hills.

It wouldn't be worth electrifying the whole way.

The whole point of passenger rail to Toowoomba being viable is that you are able to piggyback on someone elses infrastructure, so you save cost by only paying for rolling stock and station upgrades.

If you insist on electrifying, that's hundreds of millions extra.

I was gonna suggest the Bi Mode ones but I couldn't remember the name. That's the best idea imo.

What I'm wondering is how electrification would work in the Inland rail tunnel if the tunnel is designed for double stacked freight trains. So the overhead wires would have to be squished right up against the ceiling, and the thingy to connect to the wires on the train (pantograph?) Would have to be super tall!

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[AnonymouslyBad]

They can be both?

Just use something like the Velocitys in Victoria. 160km/h diesel with no need for electrification.

160km/h is about as fast as you can go on narrow gauge anyway.

However, NSW is going one better with the XPT replacements that can run in Bi Mode
https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2019/Fact%20sheet%20-%20Bi-mode%20technology%20-%20September%202019.pdf

Bi mode sounds good.

I don't think electrifying all the way to Toowoomba is a great use of money, but I also don't think we should be running diesel passenger trains on electrified line. So a train that can do both would be a great solution.

I don't think the VLocitys are anything to look up to in terms of how they're (ab)used. Not sure if it's because electricity's expensive, or the power grid's filthy, or what, but Victoria doesn't even bother electrifying anymore. Suburban sprawl? Just pretend it's regional and stick up some VLine signs so diesels can be pumped through every 6 minutes. And make sure the EPA never, ever, ever goes anywhere near Southern Cross station

[verbatim9]

They need to improve the track to Helidon and it's mostly flat. Electrification can be done to Helidon, than later up to Toowoomba when an appropriate solution is reached.

[verbatim9]

They can be both?

Just use something like the Velocitys in Victoria. 160km/h diesel with no need for electrification.

160km/h is about as fast as you can go on narrow gauge anyway.

However, NSW is going one better with the XPT replacements that can run in Bi Mode
https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/system/files/media/documents/2019/Fact%20sheet%20-%20Bi-mode%20technology%20-%20September%202019.pdf

So personally I would just use Bi Mode locomotives, run on electric to Rosewood (Which is not bad, almost halfway!)
, then diesel the rest of the way, however i would look at electrifying the final section up the range in the tunnel since electric is better for climbing hills.

It wouldn't be worth electrifying the whole way.

The whole point of passenger rail to Toowoomba being viable is that you are able to piggyback on someone elses infrastructure, so you save cost by only paying for rolling stock and station upgrades.

If you insist on electrifying, that's hundreds of millions extra.

The thingy to connect to the wires on the train (pantograph?) Would have to be super tall!

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

You mean this


"Where there is a will there is a way"

[SurfRail]

If it uses the Inland Rail alignment to get to Toowoomba (which it would have to do short of building a separate line which would service nobody), it won't be electrified - period.  They are not provisioning the tunnel up the range for this, as it would be an unjustified cost increase.

[verbatim9]

Couriermail.com.au--->The projects set to transform Brisbane by 2025

They're the futuristic city-shaping projects that will put Brisbane on the map and there are a surprising amount of them. See the multibillion-dollar projects slated to take the river city to the next level by 2025. SEE THE LIST

SOUTH CITY SQUARE

A major multistage development south of Brisbane's CBD, South City Square will be a major new precinct in the same mould as Newstead.

Located down Logan Road from the future Woolloongabba station and Gabba Stadium, South City Square will eventually include a 170-room Hyatt hotel.

A park and supermarket will be included in the development, which already features residential towers and some retailers.

Reading Cinemas and Woolworths have already been confirmed as tenants in the development.

VALLEY METRO

Frequent travellers through Fortitude Valley will already have noticed a big difference – gone are the KFC and Foodworks of the old rundown food court.

Now commuters are being herded through narrow passageways as construction commences on a major redevelopment of the Valley Metro precinct above Fortitude Valley station.

A cinema, full-line Woolworths and dozens of retailers and eateries will be included in the development.

There are also plans for a new office tower and the rejuvenation of an existing tower.

"Aesthetically, it will be a complete overhaul," Colliers International national director Bo Veivers said recently.

"There will be a lot more options for customers travelling through."

ALBION EXCHANGE

The $750 million project to redevelop the run down Albion Station has already been approved by Brisbane City Council.

Albion Exchange will include retail space and multiple apartment towers above and beside the busy transport hub on Brisbane's northside, contributing to the area's rejuvenation.

It comes as the inner north suburb is anticipated to be home to another 4,000 residents by 2036.

Being constructed by Geon Property, Albion Exchange is anticipated to have over 2,000 sqm of retail space to serve locals.

BRISBANE METRO

Two high-frequency lines will service stations along the existing busways between Eight Mile Plains, the University of Queensland, Roma Street and the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.

The service, being built by Brisbane City Council, will see new high-capacity electric buses run up to every three minutes in peak times and will operate overnight on weekends.

It will also integrate with the expanding rail network, providing a much-needed boost to inner Brisbane's public transport network.

BRISBANE LIVE

A new venue to replace the ageing Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Live will be situated above Roma Street Station.

That will put it within easy reach of virtually any corner of Greater Brisbane, making trips to and from gigs a breeze.

While a completion date is still not yet locked in, Brisbane Live is expected to be delivered once construction of the nearby Cross River Rail is done.

NEW QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

The new $150 million extension to QPAC will be complete by 2022.

A much needed expansion to Brisbane's thriving cultural heart, the new QPAC theatre will be able to seat 1,500 people and features a stunning glass facade.

When unveiling the project last year, the State Government said it would accommodate an extra 260 performances and 300,000 more visitors a year.

"Once this new theatre it built, QPAC will become largest performing arts centre in Australia," Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said at the time.

QUEEN'S WHARF

A major transformation to a once unloved corner of Brisbane's CBD, Queen's Wharf is on track to open by 2022.

Among its big draw cards are thousands of new hotel rooms, apartments that have already been snapped up, a new Skydeck and 50 new bars, restaurants and cafes.

There will be a new pedestrian bridge linking the precinct with South Bank will start construction in coming months, while new award-winning green spaces under the Riverside Expressway have already opened to the public.

The neighbouring Treasury Casino will be converted into retail as gaming will move to the so-called 'integrated resort.'

Queen's Wharf will transform Brisbane's CBD and create a tourism, entertainment and retail hub unlike anything seen in Queensland before," Destination Brisbane Consortium project director Simon Crooks said.

"QWB will be at the centre of a rejuvenated Brisbane with connects to South Bank via the Neville Bonner Bridge and easy walking distance to the new Albert Street Cross River Rail station and proposed Brisbane Live venue at Roma Street," Mr Crooks said.

"It's a game-changer that will bring a new and exciting flavour to an exciting period of evolution for Brisbane."

CROSS RIVER RAIL

The mother of all transport projects, the $5.4b project will see two rail tunnels dug from Dutton Park to Spring Hill.

It is expected to be the most expensive infrastructure project ever built in Queensland's history, and will involve 10.2km of new track, mostly underground.

There will be new stations at Woolloongabba and Albert Street, new platforms at Boggo Road and Roma Street, and a complete rebuild of the currently-under-utilised Exhibition Station.

Six stations on Brisbane's southside will be completely renovated, while three new stops will be built on the Gold Coast.

While the project is being dug in Brisbane's inner city, the State Government has been quick to point out that the biggest benefactors of the project will be commuters on the city's outskirts.

Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast commuters will see faster and more direct journeys into the CBD, while there is also the promise of a new rail line between Salisbury and the growing commuter city of Flagstone.

[BrizCommuter]

https://www.racq.com.au/Live/Articles/NS-280420--RACQs-infrastructure-wishlist-to-kickstart-economic-recovery

Includes public transport proposals:
> Beerburrum to Nambour duplication
> Springfield to Ripley and Ipswich Rail Extension
> Manly to Cleveland Rail Duplication
> Pimpama, Helensvale North and Merrimac Rail Stations
> Salisbury to Beaudesert Passenger Rail

At least some stuff's getting a run out there....not that we're hearing much from the State Govt...no surprises there!   

I would put NWTC on the list - far more population served than some of the other proposals such as Ripley.

[Jonno]

https://www.racq.com.au/Live/Articles/NS-280420--RACQs-infrastructure-wishlist-to-kickstart-economic-recovery

Includes public transport proposals:
> Beerburrum to Nambour duplication
> Springfield to Ripley and Ipswich Rail Extension
> Manly to Cleveland Rail Duplication
> Pimpama, Helensvale North and Merrimac Rail Stations
> Salisbury to Beaudesert Passenger Rail

At least some stuff's getting a run out there....not that we're hearing much from the State Govt...no surprises there!   

I would put NWTC on the list - far more population served than some of the other proposals such as Ripley.

The rest of the project list is stuck well and truly in the 1970's!!

[verbatim9]

*4 - 5 year post Covid plan

Duplication to Cleveland Yes! With new Bikeway iniatives alongside.

One infill station only on the Gold Coast line for the Interim

Build the new Loganlea station with two platforms and 4 tracks. Make Loganlea a peak terminator for all stops south.

Finish the heavy rail line to Coolangatta with a new Bikeway along side from Varsity lakes to Tugan.

Duplication to Landsborough with New Bikeway initiatives.

Remove as many level crossings as possible and close ones with limited traffic flow.

Move to a modern Driver Only operation model prior to going Driverless with just an attendant at the end of the decade.

Finish safe segregated Active transport connections to Key stations.

Busway and combined Bikeway from the Veloway to Coorparoo

50 new Trains, Top up with  6 car trains

GC East West Electric BRT network

Sunshine Coast East West electric BRT services from Landsborough and Buderim

*5 years +

Complete other GC line infill stations

NWTC with combined bikeway

Springfield Ripley Ipswich with combined Bikeway

Duplication and electrification to Helidon with combined Bikeway and local connections

Mass Transit Corridor - South Brisbane West End UQ St Lucia Indooroopilly Station Indooroopilly SC for Metro services with combined bikeway.

New electric articulated buses to replace current buses on Buz routes

ETCS Level 2-3

Driverless Train operations by 2032 on all lines.

[verbatim9]

TMR Connecting Queensland----> Connecting Qld Projects

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Queensland second-last for infrastructure spending: Report $

Queensland's hamstrung budget has resulted in the state ranking second-last for infrastructure spending, according to a new report released overnight.

It comes after Queensland last week was also revealed to be the second worst state for unemployment, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics projecting our joblessness rate was sitting at 7.7 per cent.

The 2020 Australian Infrastructure Budget Monitor ranked only Western Australia worse than the Sunshine State in terms of infrastructure spending as a proportion of total government spending due to a "constrained balance sheet". ...

... The report found that the Palaszczuk Government increased infrastructure spending by 10 per cent in reaction to the coronavirus recession, while other states jacked up spending on roads and rail by up to 45 per cent.

NSW and Victoria were planning to spend $84bn and $70bn on infrastructure over the next four years, compared with just $35bn in Queensland. ...

Sunshine Coast line, level crossing removals need to be stepped up.   

[kram0]

There is not a lot of common sense on George Street.

Record low interest rates, and many projects (both road and rail) only on the drawing board that should have been started to keep up with population growth but yet nothing............

[HappyTrainGuy]

You would want fast acceleration out of stations to ensure improved travel times. Stops at Helidon Gatton Rosewood, Ipswich, Redbank Darra and Indooroopilly to make it profitable.
I don't think a diesel train has that capability of fast acceleration out of stations like an electric alternative has.

Depends on the unit configuration, gearing and weight. You'd be surprised how quick some diesels accelerate.

[ozbob]

Government Statement

Roads, transport to steer economic recovery, jobs

> https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91532

...

Major projects set to start major construction in 2021 include:

$1.5 billion Coomera Connector (also known as the Second M1)
$709 million Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3
$662 million Bruce Highway – Caboolture to Sunshine Coast upgrade
$230 million Townsville Ring Road Stage 5
$196 million M1 – Exit 41 upgrade
$178 million Beams Road Level Crossing removal
$150 million Walkerston Bypass
$107 million Bruce Highway – Townsville Northern Access Intersections upgrade
$103 million Bruce Highway – Saltwater Creek Bridge upgrade
$75 million Mount Lindesay Highway – Stoney Camp Road to Chambers Flat Road
$35 million Lawrie Street upgrade
$35 million Peak Downs Highway – Wuthung Road to Caval Ridge upgrade
$30 million Strathpine Road Diverging Diamond Interchange
$30 million Petrie Roundabout upgrade
$25 million Cunningham Highway – Eight Mile Intersection upgrade
87 road safety projects worth close to $300 million

Major projects continuing construction in 2021 include:

$5.4 billion Cross River Rail
$1 billion Gympie Bypass
$1 billion M1 – Varsity Lakes to Tugun upgrade
$749 million M1 – Eight Mile Plains to Daisy Hill upgrade
$480 million Bruce Highway – Edmonton to Gordonvale upgrade
$360 million Mount Isa Line upgrades
$371 million Smart Ticketing project
$335 million Bruce Highway – Maroochydore Road and Mons Road Interchanges upgrades
$237.5 million Cape York Regional Package Stage 2
$193 million Port of Townsville Channel upgrade
$163 million Bruce Highway – Deception Bay Interchange upgrade
$120 million Bruce Highway - Mackay Northern Access Upgrade
$110 million Cleveland-Redland Bay Road upgrade
$50 million Bruce Highway – Mackay to Proserpine upgrade
$44.5 million Springfield Central park 'n' ride upgrade
$42.5 million Isis Highway upgrade

Major projects finishing in 2021 include:

$932 million Bruce Highway – Caloundra Road to Sunshine Motorway upgrade
$514.3 million Bruce Highway – Haughton River Floodplain upgrade
$400 million Ipswich Motorway – Rocklea to Darra upgrade
$194 million Bruce Highway – Rockhampton Northern Access upgrade
$164 million Smithfield Bypass
$123.7 million Bruce Highway – Kate Street to Aumuller Street upgrade
$80 million Sumners Road Interchange upgrade
$75 million Capricorn Highway duplication
$28.75 million Bowen Developmental Road – Rockingham Creek to Mount Coolon sealing
$20 million Philip Street duplication
$19 million Gatton Decoupling Facility
$18 million Peak Downs Highway – Eton to Mackay safety upgrade
$16.6 million Bruce Highway – Tinana overtaking lanes
$16 million Harley Street Intersection upgrade

[ozbob]

https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91708

Funding accelerates vital infrastructure
17th March 2021

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning
The Honourable Dr Steven Miles

The Palaszczuk Government will release a new State Infrastructure Strategy to support Queensland's economic recovery.

Speaking at the Infrastructure Association of Queensland (IAQ) breakfast this morning, Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Steven Miles said it would be released later this year.

"Our government is focused on the whole of Queensland. That's why a new State Infrastructure Strategy, supported by seven Regional Infrastructure Plans will be released later this year," Mr Miles said.

"The state-wide strategy will set out a more contemporary infrastructure agenda based on economic recovery.

"The seven regional infrastructure plans will drill down to support recovery and resilience at a regional level.

"These will provide a clear vision for infrastructure investment and prioritisation that will drive economic recovery, boost regional productivity and resilience, and sustain jobs."

"Queenslanders are invited to help shape this work and identify priorities for their region by completing a survey online.

"Targeted stakeholder engagement will also begin soon."

To have your say visit https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/industry/infrastructure/infrastructure-planning-and-policy/state-infrastructure-strategy

It follows the recent announcement of a Growth Areas Delivery Team for South East Queensland to facilitate partnerships between developers, local government, utility providers and the state.

"We're committed to stimulating the economy, sustaining the construction industry, and providing for future growth by co-investing with the private sector," Mr Miles told

"Queensland's population is booming, and we must keep up with the increased demand in infrastructure – the formation of the Growth Areas Delivery Team I announced recently, will see us do just that.

"The Team will consider challenges affecting land supply; housing choice and affordability; land fragmentation; progressing development applications and facilitating essential urban infrastructure."

Mr Miles also announced the Queensland Government would provide $30 million from the Building Acceleration Fund (BAF) to fast-track two infrastructure projects that will unlock land supply, job opportunities and community benefits in the south-east corner.

"The Palaszczuk Government is providing $15 million, with Lendlease co-investing $9.8 million, to unlock the next phase of the Yarrabilba development, increasing residential land supply and enabling planning to commence for community and health services," Mr Miles said.

"Construction including earthworks, water, sewer, electrical and communications mains, streetscaping and roadworks, will support around 100 jobs, pave the way for the site of Yarrabilba primary school and is expected to unlock access to over 2,000 affordable residential lots.

"A further $15 million in funding will support construction of the Bahrs Scrub Roadworks Project, to improve access, safety and transport efficiency through Bahrs Scrub.  The area is experiencing rapid growth from Frasers Property's Brookhaven master-planned community and other surrounding communities.

"This project could support 34 construction jobs and potentially a further 60 in supply chains, plus accelerate the development of 1780 dwellings and a retail centre," Mr Miles said.

Read more on how the Building Acceleration Fund (BAF) is accelerating economic recovery through investing in infrastructure and the State Infrastructure Strategy and Regional Infrastructure Plans building an even better Queensland.

ENDS

[Gazza]

$178 million Beams Road Level Crossing removal

Oh good, its not costing such a stupid amount anymore.