Concept Only Disclaimer
The following concept is for forum discussion and exploration purposes only.
It is not expected to be funded or built as a priority anytime soon. It is not BTQ policy.
In a different thread, a busway option was considered for improving PT to the Centenary Suburbs. Mode neutrality means the competing rail option will now be explored in this thread.
Centenary Rail
This (heavy) rail option concept takes the exisiting Springfield line and threads it through the Centenary suburbs before rejoining the Ipswich line at Indooroopilly.
Length: ~ 10 km (Priority A, mix of surface, tunnel and elevated)
Time: Similar to existing or slightly faster by a few mins due to newer alignment with wider stop spacing.
Stations: New stations at Indooroopilly, Fig Tree Pocket, Jindalee, Mt Ommaney Centre.
Cost Estimate: 400 million/km x 10 km = ~ $4 bn (a very rough estimate).
Comments: Unlike the busway option where the Centenary bridge (road) could be used, a new rail only bridge over the Brisbane River will be required to carry the track and trains. Stricter engineering requirements than a busway due to trains requiring a less steep gradients and smoother curves. Trains could potentiall travel faster (speed limit bus 90 km, train 130-160 km/hr).
(Click to expand)
