A new 35-tonne footbridge was installed at East Ipswich train station earlier this month (8-9 May), marking a major milestone in the multi-million-dollar project to make the station accessible for all.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said East Ipswich was one of 17 stations in the Palaszczuk Government’s half-a-billion-dollar station accessibility upgrade program, supporting 250 construction jobs.

“This is a fantastic major milestone for the project that will benefit our local community and visitors to the area,” said Ms Howard.

“The 25-metre-long steel footbridge is a key feature of the upgrade and now that it’s installed, work on the stair connections and lifts will eventually enable step-free access between all platforms.

“Work is continuing on the new accessible high-level platforms, and a new enclosure for secure storage of up to 24 bikes will also soon be built.”

Ms Howard said the project would provide all customers access to the station without barriers.

“Once complete, everyone in our community including people using mobility devices or with hearing or vision impairment, seniors, people with injuries and those travelling with prams and luggage, will be able to easily and safely access all parts of East Ipswich station,” she said. 

“The accessible footbridge with lifts and the high-level platforms are key to achieving this, so it is very positive to see them progressing well.

“As part of the upgrade, East Ipswich is also getting a new, modern station building, new entrances from Merton and Coronation streets, platform shelters and upgraded CCTV, lighting and signage.

“Importantly, improved accessible parking and upgraded hearing loops will also be delivered.

“As with any major infrastructure project, there can be varying impacts throughout construction so I’d like to thank the East Ipswich community for their patience and support while this work continues.”

Ms Howard also took the opportunity to remind East Ipswich locals of the current Queensland Rail photo competition which will see the winner’s photo transformed into a large-scale public mural on the new station building’s Merton Street entrance.

“For any amateur, professional or budding photographers out there, it’s not too late to visit the Queensland Rail website and find out how you make your mark on the new station,” she said.

Find more information about the photo competition here: https://www.queenslandrail.com.au/east-ipswich-station-photo-competition