THE revitalisation of Parramatta’s ‘Eat Street’ is well underway with the first tracks laid for Parramatta Light Rail in the dining precinct.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said major light rail construction on Church Street, from Lennox Bridge to George Street, is being fast-tracked for completion in mid-2021.
“It’s exciting to see a city-shaping project like the Parramatta Light Rail make significant progress over the past few weeks,” Mr Constance said.
“Up to 500 people per day and 300 each night worked through the Christmas and New Year period to connect utilities and lay tracks for the new light rail network, which will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia.
“Construction crews are working a combined 8,500 hours a day right across the whole 12-kilometre alignment to deliver this project as quickly as possible, so everyone can enjoy the benefits.”
Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee said amending the construction schedule for ‘Eat Street’ in response to COVID-19 saw work continue through a planned three-month construction break, bringing forward the completion of major works in the dining precinct.
“We thank our local businesses for their patience and understanding during what has been a tough period for many. Seeing the first light rail tracks on ‘Eat Street’ is a positive sign of what’s to come,” Dr Lee said.
“A celebration is planned from August, with a Transport for NSW activation known as ‘Eat Street Uncovered’ to take place before the installation of light rail stops and the commencement of network testing and commissioning.”
166 metres of track have now been installed along Eat Street.
The Parramatta Light Rail is expected to open in 2023. For more information, visit www.parramattalightrail.nsw.gov.au.
