KiwiRail announced the construction works to double the track line between Trentham and Upper Hutt, as part of the Wellington network modernisation.
Under the project, a 2.7-km rail section will be doubled between Trentham and Upper Hutt, including the modernisation of the existing stations along the line. KiwiRail is also building second platforms and shelters at Trentham and Wallaceville stations, additional rail lines at Upper Hutt to stable freight services and making improvements to level crossings and signals to ensure safety and improve efficiency.
The project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The work is part of the NZD 193 million (USD 126.25 million) investment across the Wellington rail network announced by the Government in late 2018, which is expected to be undertaken progressively until 2026. Greater Wellington Regional Council is contributing a further NZD 3 million (USD 2 million) for the Trentham and Wallaceville station upgrades.
“This is an important step in upgrading Wellington’s rail network and will help make the metro and Wairarapa commuter trains more reliable. Double tracking effectively removes a congestion point in the network and will create more flexibility when the two commuter services interact with each other and with our freight trains coming to and from the Wairarapa,” KiwiRail Chief Operating Officer, David Gordon, said.
The works in the Wellington metro upgrade programme include the renewing of the existing infrastructure, by replacing the tracks and modernizing the overhead power system and signals power supply. Adding capacity by the construction of the double track on the Trentham – Upper Hutt section and by the improvement of Wellington and Plimmerton stations, are the other important projects to be carried out under the investment programme. Currently funded works will be delivered until 2026.
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