CIMIC Group secures major contract for Adelaide tram overhaul

The Federal and South Australian governments have selected CIMIC Group company CPB Contractors to deliver the Tram Grade Separation Projects, in an Alliance with McConnell Dowell, Mott MacDonald, ARUP, and Aurecon.

Designed to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of transport, the Tram Grade Separation Projects will also enhance amenity, connectivity, and liveability along the existing tram line from Adelaide’s CBD to Glenelg.

Key to this project are modifications to the existing overpass at South Road, which are required to facilitate the construction of the highly anticipated River Torrens to Darlington Project.

The Tram Grade Separation Project will generate revenue of approximately $212.8 million for CPB Contractors.

“These upgrades will be critical to supporting economic growth in South Australia and reducing travel times for motorists, buses, freight, and airport traffic while promoting sustainable urban growth and low-emission, healthy transport choices for commuters,” said CIMIC Group Executive Chairman Juan Santamaria.

“On completion, these works will foster a stronger sense of community between the suburbs of Adelaide, providing better, safer, and more accessible tram stops with improved open spaces for the local people and visitors to enjoy,” Santamaria added.

CPB Contractors Managing Director Jason Spears expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “CPB Contractors looks forward to further growing our partnership with South Australia’s Department for Infrastructure and Transport to safely deliver this important piece of infrastructure on time and budget for the city of Adelaide.”

“With over 40 years’ experience delivering city and region-shaping infrastructure in South Australia, we look forward to furthering our legacy in providing local employment and training opportunities, with a focus on diversity.”

Spears continued, “Our expert team will continue our commitment to ensuring that social and economic benefits are maximised for the communities in which we work by prioritising the engagement of local businesses and suppliers, including Indigenous-owned businesses and social enterprises.”

The scope of work for the Tram Grade Separation Projects includes efforts at three main locations along the Glenelg Tram Line, works along the tram corridor, modifications of the existing tram overpass at South Road, replacement of the level crossings at Marion Road, Cross Road, and Morphett Road with tram overpasses, intersection upgrades, tram depot upgrades at Glengowrie, and a temporary tram maintenance depot on Peacock Road on the edge of the CBD.

The project will also include the installation of signalling upgrades along the tram corridor and the creation of new public spaces for local communities.