The Parramatta Light Rail is a city-shaping infrastructure project to connect communities in Greater Parramatta and bring the vision of a ‘30-minute city’ closer to reality. Stage 1 linking Westmead with Carlingford is due to open in 2024 and the EIS for Stage 2 Parramatta to Sydney Olympic Park is now on exhibition.
An Active Transport Link (ATL) is being delivered along the light rail corridor. The first section between Carlingford and Tramway Avenue, Parramatta is nearly ready and Bicycle NSW can’t wait to check it out. The ATL will be a huge asset for the regional cycling network.
However, the construction of Stage 1 was not plain sailing and Bicycle NSW worked hard over many years to ensure the best possible outcomes for bike riders. We highlighted how the cycling plan was riddled with safety issues and broken connections. We explored solutions to the hazards created by the gaps in the light rail tracks and advocated for better alternatives to dismounts and banning bikes from light rail corridors.
It is hoped that lessons learned from Stage 1, as well as the Sydney and Newcastle light rail projects, will be applied to Stage 2.