Burpengary commuters are celebrating the reopening of their newly upgraded train station, which is now fully accessible to all passengers. Following a major refurbishment in January, the station boasts new features designed to make travel more accessible for everyone.
Inclusivity at the Forefront
The highlight of the upgrade is the addition of lifts, an overpass, and raised platforms. This ensures that individuals with wheelchairs, prams, or luggage can seamlessly navigate the station. The commitment to inclusivity extends further with upgraded customer facilities such as accessible toilets and a disability-compliant ticket window.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
The station’s transformation doesn’t stop at accessibility. Passengers will also benefit from hearing augmentation loops, tactile floor indicators, and rubber fillers to minimise the gap between the platform and the train. New wayfinding signage, information screens, and upgraded CCTV and lighting enhance the travel experience.
Improved Parking and Cycling Facilities
The station’s car park has been reconfigured to accommodate nearly 500 vehicles, with 350 spaces currently available. Additional spaces will open upon completion of minor ongoing works. Accessible parking bays and pathways connect the car park to the platforms, and an upgraded permanent kiss ‘n’ ride zone is nearing completion. Cyclists can use a new security swipe access system for the existing 24-bike enclosure, and 102 bike lockers remain available across the station precinct.
Community Spirit
The station also showcases a touch of local artistry. Artwork by Brenden Hirst, a Burpengary resident who won Queensland Rail’s photography competition, adds a community feel to the project.
Statewide Rail Upgrades
Burpengary Station is just one piece of a larger puzzle. It’s one of six Queensland Rail stations currently undergoing simultaneous accessibility upgrades, with works also progressing at Bundamba, Banyo, Buranda, Lindum, and Morningside. The Cross River Rail rebuild of Dutton Park station is also on track for completion by year’s end.
Government’s Commitment to Public Transport
These upgrades reflect the Miles Government’s dedication to expanding, improving, and modernising Queensland’s rail network. It’s part of a broader plan to meet the growing state’s demands and prepare for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Ministerial and Community Endorsement
Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish emphasised the importance of a modern and accessible rail network, especially during the 50-cent fare trial. He highlighted how upgrades like these make public transport a viable option for everyone, regardless of their mobility needs.
Member for Kurwongbah Shane King expressed his delight at the project’s completion, having campaigned for it in 2020. He acknowledged the community’s patience during the station’s closure and underscored the significance of affordable, accessible public transport, particularly in outer suburbs.
Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan emphasised the Caboolture line’s importance as a crucial transport infrastructure. He noted the upgraded Burpengary station’s positive impact on the community, especially with Moreton Bay’s rapid growth.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton expressed pride in delivering the modernised station. She reaffirmed Queensland Rail’s commitment to continuous network improvement and highlighted Burpengary as the first of six stations to reopen following major accessibility upgrades.
The simultaneous upgrades at six stations represent Queensland Rail’s largest undertaking. Since 2017, Queensland Rail has completed 13 station upgrades across the state. These efforts, combined with Cross River Rail’s ambitious plans and other ongoing improvements, are transforming Queensland’s rail network, making it more accessible, comfortable, and secure for all passengers.
Published Date 16-September-2024
Photo Credit: MPBartMellish/ Facebook
