THE state’s second longest steel arch bridge has been lifted into place over a busy Sydney road, in a major milestone for the Parramatta Light Rail project.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the bridge will connect light rail users, pedestrians and cyclists across James Ruse Drive in Rosehill which has 65,000 vehicle movements each day.
“Over the last six months, the community has witnessed this huge 1,425-tonne steel arch structure coming together right here in western Sydney,” Mr Constance said.
“More than 200 workers have been involved in building and moving the 64-metre long and 16-metre-wide structure, and it is great to see it now in place after a meticulous overnight engineering operation.”
It took four self-propelled modular transporters, also known as heavy haulage jacks, eight hours to move and lower the structure onto the bridge piers. The bridge will now be fitted out with light rail tracks.
Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee said the new bridge would help the community travel safely and easily across James Ruse Drive by light rail, walking and cycling.
“The bridge will connect the local community with the new Tramway Avenue light rail stop on the western side of James Ruse Drive, and make it much safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the busy road,” Dr Lee said.
“The Parramatta Light Rail project is committed to using Australian resources and manufacturing – the steel was fabricated in a workshop at Rooty Hill and the bridge then assembled in Rosehill.”
The 12-kilometre Parramatta Light Rail will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia, and is expected to commence services in 2023.
