Geotechnical investigations to start on light rail stage two to Woden
Canberrans will soon spot a boat of engineers out on Lake Burley Griffin as part of geotechnical investigations for stage two of the light rail project
Canberrans will soon spot a boat of engineers out on Lake Burley Griffin.
They’ll be carrying out geotechnical investigations to measure the compressive strength of the soil at Commonwealth Ave Bridge as part of planning works for stage two of the light rail to Woden.
Transport Canberra’s Director of Engineering Doug Sinclair said this would aid design work for a third structure for the light rail in between the two spans of the existing bridge.
“We are confirming that we can build that without any impact on those structures or the traffic that runs across them,” he said.
The project will involve the use of rigs, boats, sonar technology and about 20 geotechnical engineers who will start their investigations shortly, pending approvals from the National Capital Authority.
The geotechnical work will be undertaken over three to six months.
Meanwhile the Authority, which owns the bridge, is carrying out its own probe into whether the Commonwealth Ave Bridge should be knocked down and rebuilt to cater for traffic and the light rail.
Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Canberra Barbara Norman would like to see the bridge avoid the wrecker’s ball if possible.
“If the analysis shows that Commonwealth Bridge can be adapted to accommodate light rail and conserve its heritage as well then that would be an excellent outcome — combining the best of the past with the new,” Prof Norman said.
“However if the analysis shows we need a new bridge then we should design the best in the world for our national capital.
“A smart transit corridor connecting civic to parliament and the south, supporting active travel — safe walking and cycling and public transport aided by smart technology.”
An ACT Government spokeswoman said this year’s Budget invests a further $68 million to progress detailed design, planning and enabling works for Stage 2 of light rail from the City to Woden.
“This includes starting work from the Woden end by delivering a new bus interchange that can interface with light rail,” she said.
“We will continue conversations with the re-elected Coalition Government about the route alignment and approvals through the Parliamentary Triangle. Both of these factors will influence the timing of delivery of this project.”
IN OTHER NEWS
Canberra sale and auction results, week ending October 6
Ngunnawal proved to be a hot market last week with eight properties selling for a total value of $6 million. See the latest auction and sales results.
Splash not crash! Aussies vital intel for women’s America’s Cup debut
Watching and listening to teammates race in the youth America’s Cup has provided crucial intel for Australia’s first women’s team - including how not to make too much of a splash.