Construction work on Newcastle Light Rail has been completed, with standard services set to commence on Monday 18 February.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Andrew Constance, said the opening of the network marks an historic day for the city.
“From Monday 18 February, light rail taking passengers through the heart of Newcastle will be the new normal, marking a key moment in the city’s revitalisation,” Mr Constance said.
“With 4,000 new homes and almost 8,000 more jobs expected in the city centre by 2036, Newcastle Light Rail will play an important role in keeping this growing city moving, and reducing congestion well into the future.
“We’ve delivered this project faster than anyone anticipated, and it will be a proud moment for the Premier and myself when services begin next month.”
Keolis Downer Hunter Managing Director, Mark Dunlop, said the Newcastle Transport team will have boots on the ground to help passengers use the new service when it launches.
“As this is a completely new system, we anticipate there will be some minor kinks to iron out initially as passengers get used to it and as the last of the light rail vehicles are fully commissioned,” Mr Dunlop said.
“We expect the service to improve daily as the system is optimised, and we’re committed to helping our passengers get the most out of light rail.”
The NSW Government announced Newcastle Light Rail will launch with a free community open day on Sunday 17 February, during which Novocastrians can experience the light rail free of charge.
