Consultations with local businesses and the community are underway as the South Australian Government begins its City South Tram Line Replacement Project.
Currently, the existing City South tram stop does not have signage, ramps, tactile ground surface indicators or space for wheelchair access.
The project aims to upgrade the stop to ensure it meets the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and also includes the replacement for tram tracks between South Terrace and Victoria Square to create a dedicated tram corridor.
Due to the change in project scope, the total cost of the project has been revised to $17.5 million.
SA Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said the SA Government is beginning the consultation with local business and residents well ahead of the construction phase to minimise disruption.
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“A top priority will be providing support to local businesses that may be affected by this project,” Knoll said.
“The existing tram tracks on King William Street between South Terrace and Victoria Square were constructed in the early 1980s and are reaching the end of their useful life.
“Therefore, these are necessary and important works that must occur and importantly also gives an opportunity to make the City South tram stop DDA compliant,” he said.
The project will also reduce delays to current tram operations and improve safety along King William Street for both road and tram users, Knoll said.
Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor welcomed the State Government’s investment and the commencement of the project.
“The City of Adelaide has long advocated for an upgrade to the City South tram stop, which services an important main street and an increasing residential population,” she said.
“Council will work closely with the Government to ensure the impact of construction on local small businesses and residents is minimised as much as possible.
“Along with my fellow members, I look forward to seeing the community engagement outcomes and to viewing the final design,” Verschoor said.