Author: admin

The Crisafulli Government is getting the Cross River Rail project back on track after years of Labor’s mismanagement, with visible progress at the new Albert Street underground station. It’s the first new CBD train station in more than 120 years.

The installation of the 153-tonne station canopy, which will provide shade over the public plaza outside the main entrance, is now clearly visible from the street. While sections of the Albert Street green spine – a shady subtropical boulevard between Mary and Elizabeth streets with outdoor dining – is now open to the public.

There’s also been a hive of activity below ground, with the recent installation of Queensland’s longest escalator measuring more than 37 metres at the station’s northern entrance for those approaching from Queen Street.

29 escalators have been installed at Albert Street, the most of any underground Cross River Rail station.

First Cross River Rail passenger services are expected to commence in 2029, after the former Labor Government originally promised Queenslanders the project would be completed for $5.4 billion by 2024. The Crisafulli Government revealed the final price tag of Labor’s Cross River Rail cover-up and failures at $19.041 billion.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor, with the latest progress forming part of the wider rail transformation underway across Southeast Queensland. 

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the milestone reflected the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to delivering the once-in-a-generation rail transformation and essential transport infrastructure.

“We’re getting on with the job of delivering Cross River Rail’s Albert Street station following a challenging period for the project under the former Labor Government, including more than 140 days lost to protected action,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“We’ve worked hard to restore momentum on Cross River Rail and the progress is clear – the canopy is in place, the plaza is taking shape, and the station is moving closer to completion.

“With projects like Cross River Rail, Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail, and The Wave on the Sunshine Coast, we’re building the public transport network Queenslanders need for 2032 and beyond.”

Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said Albert Street station would become a prominent inner-city landmark.

“It’s exciting to see the station coming to life in the heart of the CBD,” Mr Newton said.

“The underground tunnels and stations are just one part of the Delivery Authority’s wider scope – our teams are also carrying out essential works across the rail network during the quieter holiday period, including installing new signalling infrastructure, improving drainage and forming new tracks.

“We recognise these works may cause some inconvenience, which is why they are scheduled during the school holidays when fewer customers use our network – if you need to travel, please plan ahead and allow additional time.”

To plan your journey, use the Translink app, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 20.