UPGRADES TO BLUE MOUNTAINS LINE NOW COMPLETE

Upgrades to the Blue Mountains Line in preparation for the arrival of the New Intercity Fleet are now complete.
 
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the upgrades were another step towards welcoming the first new train since the last of the V-Sets was introduced 30 years ago.
 
“The Blue Mountains Line between Springwood and Lithgow has now been upgraded to a more consistent standard to match the rest of the electrified network, meaning the new trains can now run all the way to Lithgow,” Mr Constance said.
 
“Work included upgrades along the rail corridor from west of Springwood Station to Lithgow Station, including minor modifications to the Ten Tunnels Deviation, between Newnes Junction Station and Zig Zag Station.
 
“These upgrades will pave the way for the new fleet to provide better connections to places and opportunities for employment, education, business and enjoyment.”
 
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the new trains were expected to start testing as far as Katoomba over the next few months, and all the way to Lithgow soon after.

“Customers can expect more spacious seating, mobile device charging ports, modern heating and air conditioning and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, luggage, prams and bicycles,” Mr Toole said.
 
“NSW TrainLink Customer Service Guards will also be walking through the train to provide customer service and assistance with boarding and alighting.”
 
The new fleet will be introduced progressively starting with the Central Coast and Newcastle Line later this year, followed by the Blue Mountains Line and the South Coast Line. The project, including the construction of the new maintenance facility at Kangy Angy, has helped to create about 1600 local jobs.