AdeLINK tram network another step closer with $4 million business case funding announced
The recognition of an extended tram network as a priority project for Adelaide’s has prompted the South Australian (SA) Government to fund a business case for it.
The expansion of AdeLINK tram network was listed as a priority in Infrastructure Australia’s (IA) 15-Year Infrastructure Plan, on its release recently.
The business case will include planning, design, identifying precise tram routes and the final project cost, which will allow an appeal for Federal Government funding to be made, the SA Government announced this week.
“Our vision for the AdeLINK tram network is now taking shape with two major leaps forward this week,” SA premier Jay Weatherill says.
“Infrastructure Australia listed our new tram network for Adelaide as a priority project, and we are committing to fund a detailed business case.
“This work is about ensuring AdeLINK is ready to be funded, and we will be working with the Commonwealth Government and local governments to help us advance this exciting public transport project.”
Expanding Adelaide’s tram network is seen as an opportunity to attract investment, boost economic growth and bring residents and visitors to the city centre.
“Importantly, it will support and contribute to the growing market demand for residential development in the CBD, inner and middle metropolitan Adelaide,” Weatherill says.
SA minister for transport and infrastructure Stephen Mullighan says while the potential benefits are substantial, each stage will be carefully reviewed to match the city’s growth and the changing travel needs of residents.
“There will also be further engagement with the community and local governments during the development of the detailed business case,” he says.
“We know light rail is a fantastic public transport option which customers love to use.
“The extension of the Glenelg tram line to the entertainment centre has proven to be extremely popular since it was opened.”
A tender for a company to provide a detailed business case for the AdeLINK tram network will be released next month.
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