Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 17, An international consortium, comprising Acciona, SMEC, WSP, and Cimic subsidiaries CPB Contractors and UGL, has secured a design and pre-construction contract for a US$3.65 billion (A$5.75 billion) rail enhancement project in Brisbane’s southern metropolitan region. Known as the “Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail” initiative, the project is jointly funded by the Australian federal and Queensland state governments.

The project targets a 20km rail bottleneck between Kuraby and Beenleigh, where a single track in each direction forces local trains to yield to Gold Coast express services. The “ActivUs Alliance,” formed by the consortium, will develop plans to expand this corridor from two to four tracks, upgrade nine suburban stations, eliminate five level crossings, and modernize signaling systems. These improvements aim to enhance train speeds and efficiency for local services and routes connecting Brisbane to the City of Gold Coast.

Commissioned by Queensland Rail and the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, the alliance will focus on design development, project planning, and site assessments. The initiative is designed to accommodate Queensland’s growing population and support its vibrant tourism sector, particularly in preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Jason Spears, managing director of CPB Contractors, emphasized the project’s significance: “The project would support Queensland’s growing population and thriving tourism industry.” The enhancements are expected to improve rail capacity and connectivity, ensuring smoother and faster travel for commuters and visitors alike.

Scheduled for completion before the 2032 Games, the project will deliver a more reliable and efficient rail network, contributing to the region’s infrastructure and economic growth. The collaborative effort underscores a commitment to sustainable urban development and improved public transportation in one of Australia’s key metropolitan areas.