The $141 million Flinders Rail Line has opened to passengers, connecting the Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders University to Adelaide’s rail network.
The project extends the existing Tonsley passenger rail line, helping to improve links to the Adelaide Central Business district.
It is expected to add an additional 12,000 trips each year and will allow for weekend and late-night trips into the city.
The jointly funded project has delivered a 650-metre extension of the current Tonsley rail line, including an elevated single track over Sturt Road, Laffer’s Triangle and Main South Road.
It also included the construction of the new Flinders and Tonsley Railway Stations, as well as an integrated shared pedestrian/cycle path adjacent the rail line.
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Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said the project is part of the Federal Government’s $110 billion, 10-year infrastructure plan.
State Member for Elder Carolyn Power said the State Government had ensured consultation with local residents was a priority when deciding the location of the new Tonsley Station.
Findings from the community consultation indicated that station access was a high priority,” Power said.
“Thanks to the feedback received, we improved connections for the residents of Mitchell Park and were also able to include lighting, seating and signage to enhance accessibility and use.”
President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling said the rail service will transform access to Flinders University and make it easier than ever for future students to achieve their career ambitions with a Flinders degree.
“This is a game changer. Students from across greater Adelaide who may previously have struggled to get to Flinders can now get from the CBD to our front door in barely 20 minutes. Each time the train door opens, it’s opening onto opportunities for careers in health, education, science and technology, and more,” Stirling said.
“For our existing students and staff at Bedford Park and Tonsley it represents a fast, affordable and very convenient travel alternative.”
Major finishing works will continue in the coming weeks.