Joining the project crew to mark completion of the Queanbeyan Train Station upgrade are (front row, from left) Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Deputy Mayor Esma Livermore, Member for Monaro Steve Whan and SAT project director Chris Daffin. Photo: Supplied.
A series of upgrades to Queanbeyan Train Station to improve passenger accessibility and safety has been completed.
The work, which cost $4 million, was part of a statewide Safe Accessible Transport (SAT) program for commuters.
The SAT program aims to make public transport safe, inclusive and easy to use for all passengers (including people with a disability, parents with prams and people carrying luggage for their trips).
Member for Monaro Steve Whan said the Queanbeyan project followed consultation with the community about what people wanted to see.
“We listened to local feedback, and these improvements reflect what the community told us was important,” he said.
“From safer crossings and upgraded platforms to new parking and bike racks, these changes will make daily travel simpler and more comfortable for residents and visitors alike.”
According to the project’s page on Transport for NSW’s website, the upgrade included a new accessible ramp, stairs and a footpath to make navigating the station easier.
The carpark was resurfaced, while the station platform was regraded. There is also new landscaping (which involved relocating a palm tree from the carpark).
The existing unisex toilet was replaced with a family accessible toilet, and new accessible seating and allocated waiting spaces for wheelchair users were added.
New bicycle parking in the station’s forecourt has also been installed, and lighting and CCTV facilities have been upgraded.
“Queanbeyan station is a little heritage jewel in our town, [and] we all love its charm and history,” Mr Whan said.
“But it is important that it is also a practical and modern transport facility, and this project has achieved that balance.”
The funding for the upgrade was provided under the NSW Government’s $800 million election commitment to ongoing accessibility improvements across the network.
Minister for Road and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said the project meant everyone could use the station.
“With upgrades to the pedestrian crossing, station platform, carpark, toilets and waiting spaces, we are making sure our public transport is as safe and inclusive as possible,” she said.
“These upgrades are about making journeys and connections easier for all commuters.”
Canberra Train Station has also been put forward as needing a facelift through the SAT program. (The station is run by Transport for NSW, whose website says design and planning work is continuing for that upgrade.)
For more information on the upgrades, phone 1800 684 490, email [email protected] or visit the project’s website.
