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The project was completed on schedule and, according to ARTC, removes the need for coal trains destined for the Kooragang Coal Handling Facility to stand idle at Sandgate while waiting for passenger and other freight services to clear the track.
Major signalling works and other rail upgrades were completed along with the major works.
ARTC chief executive David Marchant said the project removed an impediment that had existed for decades.
“Regular delays of up to 30 minutes or more at Sandgate telescoped up the Hunter Valley coal line, delaying trains and reducing the efficiency of the entire coal chain,” Marchant said.
The flyover is also expected to benefit local residents, who had to endure the engine noise of idling trains and the sounds of rolling stock stopping and starting.
“The line separation at Sandgate has been planned for years but when ARTC took over the lease of NSW rail lines in 2004 it became a priority,” Marchant said.
The $80 million cost comprises $60 million for construction of the flyover and tracks, $10 million for the signalling and communications systems, $6 million for rail and sleepers supplied by ARTC and $4 million for project management.
