Creating new connections across Brisbane’s rail network
As southeast Queensland's population grows, additional rail capacity is needed to support future services and reduce pressure on Brisbane's existing rail network. Cross River Rail is a 6.3-mile (10.2-kilometer) railway line beneath Brisbane’s Central Business District (CBD) that connects Dutton Park and Bowen Hills, creating a new river crossing and connecting the city's southern and northern rail corridors. Designed to increase capacity across southeast Queensland’s rail network, the project will enable more frequent train services and improve connections across the city. Given its scale and complexity, the project is being delivered through multiple program packages. Jacobs, as part of the Unity Alliance comprising CPB Contractors, UGL and AECOM, supports the Rail, Integration and Systems (RIS) package.
(10-kilometer) railway line
Maximum number of trains that can run in each direction through the new river crossing
stations being upgraded as part of the RIS package
The RIS package delivers rail systems, signaling, communications and operational infrastructure required to integrate the new railway with Queensland Rail’s existing network, enabling reliable operations across the expanded rail corridor.
Jacobs is supporting the design of 2.7 miles (4.3 kilometers) of mainline rail and associated surface works linking the new tunnel infrastructure with Brisbane’s broader rail corridor, alongside upgrades to the Gold Coast Line between Fairfield and Salisbury. Drawing on capabilities across civil, structural, track, geotechnical, environmental and systems engineering, we’re contributing to the delivery of rail infrastructure, systems and station upgrades that form one of the program's most technically complex packages.
Working within an operating rail network
Delivering major rail infrastructure within an active railway demands careful planning and coordination. The design maximizes use of the existing rail corridor while minimizing impacts on surrounding roads and critical infrastructure. The rail alignment has been developed to avoid significant impacts to existing structures along the route and minimize disruption to the public. With most construction taking place in a live brownfield rail environment, works are being carefully staged to align with Queensland Rail’s possession program and keep services running wherever possible.
The project has achieved a ‘Leading’ Infrastructure Sustainability (IS) Design rating, recognizing its innovative and collaborative approach to delivering long-term sustainable transport outcomes.
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The project delivers a vital second river crossing for Brisbane’s rail network, significantly easing existing capacity constraints while facilitating social and economic development in the region. As a key part of Brisbane’s long-term transport strategy, it will be the catalyst for a more connected city for the future.
President, Global Operations
All images credit: Cross River Rail Authority
