The New South Wales Government has given planning approval for The Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 project in Western Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
The project aims to link Parramatta CBD to Sydney Olympic Park, connecting emerging communities like Camellia, Rydalmere, Ermington, Melrose Park, and Wentworth Point. The 10 km extension features 14 new light rail stops. The approved corridor incorporates alignment adjustments around Rydalmere, streamlining connections to Rydalmere Ferry Wharf and improving travel efficiency. The construction will be phased, commencing in late 2024 with the development of a 320 m public and active transport bridge over the Parramatta River, connecting Melrose Park and Wentworth Point.
This bridge, a pivotal project, marks the first significant crossing over the Parramatta River in almost 40 years since the completion of Ryde Bridge in 1987. Procurement for the AU$ 602.4 million (US$ 392 million) bridge is ongoing, and the initial contract for enabling works is anticipated to be awarded in late 2024. This represents the initial phase in implementing Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2, with primary construction on the bridge set to commence in 2025.