The business case for Stage 2A of Canberra’s light rail system has been approved by Cabinet as the first step towards extending the service to Woden.
The approved route will run between Alinga Street station and Commonwealth Park.
Minister for Transport, Chris Steel said work was expected to begin on the Commonwealth Park extension as early as next year.
“By beginning work on Stage 2A, we are keeping the knowledge and skills from the successful delivery of stage 1 in Canberra,” Mr Steel said.
“The Stage 2A route through London Circuit West and Commonwealth Avenue provides access to residential areas, business precincts, the ANU, the Canberra Visitors Centre, entertainment and retail areas, through to the designated transport corridor to Woden.”
He said he would continue to work with the Commonwealth on the necessary approvals for light rail to progress through the Parliamentary Triangle to Woden.
“We will be ready to proceed with Stage 2B linking Commonwealth Park to the Woden Town Centre once these approvals have been granted – delivering light rail to Woden residents as soon as possible.”
Mr Steel said stage 2A of the project was 1.7 kilometres in length with three new stops and four new vehicles.
“Early estimations suggest that daily patronage of Stage 2A will be an additional 2,500-3,000 passengers per day within the first operating year,” he said.
