East Perth Station Upgrade: A Case Study in Railway Technology

This article examines the East Perth Station upgrade project, a significant undertaking showcasing advancements in railway infrastructure development and construction management. The project’s primary aim was to enhance the station’s capacity and accessibility to accommodate the increased passenger demand anticipated with the opening of the new Perth Stadium in 2018. This involved not only expanding the physical footprint of the station but also implementing innovative construction techniques and leveraging digital engineering to optimize the project’s efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The project serves as a valuable case study for future railway infrastructure projects, highlighting best practices in design, procurement, and construction management within the context of a complex urban environment. The analysis will delve into the project’s phased implementation, the strategic use of digital engineering (DE), and the overall impact on passenger experience and operational efficiency. The successful completion of this project provides valuable insights for future similar projects globally.

Project Overview and Scope

The $25 million East Perth Station upgrade, managed by the Public Transport Authority (PTA) of Western Australia and funded by the Western Australian Government, formed a crucial component of a larger $358 million integrated transport solution for the Perth Stadium. The project significantly enhanced the station’s capabilities to handle the projected 7,500 daily passengers utilizing the station for stadium access out of a total 60,000 expected stadium attendees. Key improvements included platform lengthening, the construction of new sheltered areas, and the replacement of the existing pedestrian bridge with a fully covered, Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)-compliant structure. Further upgrades encompassed the installation of four new lifts and staircases, improved bicycle parking facilities, and the addition of a rail crossover to improve operational flexibility. The surrounding Public Transport Centre’s car parks also underwent renovations, including the addition of new bike parking facilities.

Phased Construction and Mitigation Strategies

The project was implemented in three distinct stages to minimize disruption to passenger services. Stage one (mid-August 2016 – November 2016) involved diverting underground utilities and laying foundations for the new concourse. Stage two (November 2016 – June 2017) included the installation of a temporary platform, demolition of a section of the existing platform, adjustments to rail infrastructure components (cameras, signals, and electronics), and the construction of new concourse foundations and entry nodes. Stage three (June 2017 – late 2017) focused on demolishing the remaining old platform and pedestrian bridge, extending the platform, and adding a new canopy. Throughout the construction, the station remained operational, with out-of-hours work conducted during planned track closures to minimize passenger inconvenience. The use of a temporary platform and strategic phasing was vital in maintaining rail service continuity.

Digital Engineering and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA)

The PRISM Alliance (Laing O’Rourke, AECOM, and PTA) employed digital engineering (DE) technologies throughout the design phase and construction process. DE provided a detailed 3D model of the station, allowing for improved visualization of complex construction processes and risk assessment. This resulted in enhanced work integration, reduced rework, and increased confidence in project costs and quality. The alliance also prioritized Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA), maximizing off-site prefabrication. For example, prefabricated concourse bridge modules were delivered fully roofed and cladded, significantly reducing on-site construction time, improving health and safety, minimizing noise and traffic disruptions, and enhancing overall project efficiency.

Project Summary and Key Outcomes

Conclusions

The East Perth Station upgrade project successfully delivered a modernized and significantly improved passenger experience. The project’s phased approach, combined with the strategic use of digital engineering and DFMA principles, minimized disruptions and enhanced efficiency. The use of DE led to better risk management, reduced rework, and increased confidence in cost and quality. The adoption of DFMA through off-site prefabrication resulted in improved health and safety outcomes, reduced environmental impact, and faster project completion. The project serves as a compelling example of how innovative construction management techniques and technological advancements can contribute to the successful and efficient delivery of complex railway infrastructure projects. The project’s success demonstrates the potential for significant improvements in passenger experience, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness through the strategic integration of modern technologies and methodologies. The lessons learned from this project provide valuable insights for future railway infrastructure developments around the world, emphasizing the importance of integrated planning, proactive risk management, and the adoption of digital tools for optimal outcomes.

Company Information:

Public Transport Authority (PTA): The Western Australian government agency responsible for public transport planning, delivery, and operation.

Laing O’Rourke: A global engineering and construction company.

AECOM: A multinational engineering firm providing professional technical and management support services across a broad range of markets.