SKM provided engineering design services for the recently commissioned Eastern Busway first section in Brisbane, Queensland.
SKM was part of the Boggo Road Busway Alliance with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads and Thiess Pty Ltd that completed the challenging A$366 million project on time and budget. The 2.1 kilometre busway is the latest addition to the Queensland Government’s successful busway network in the rapidly expanding south east corner of Queensland.
Much of the first stage of the Eastern Busway is underground and includes the longest dedicated busway tunnel in Australia. This tunnel was constructed beneath the heritage-listed Boggo Road Gaol with the project team using a carefully considered work methodology to minimise potential settlement on the surface that could damage the gaol buildings. The project also includes significant cut and cover tunnelling beneath nine electrified rail tracks and the Pacific Motorway, together with two busway stations.
With population growth continuing to place pressure on South East Queensland’s lifestyle and transport system, the busway will provide significant benefits to commuters and local residents. It is expected to be used immediately by up to 300 buses carrying about 7,500 passengers per day, with each full bus taking about 40 cars off the road.