UPDATE: The Cross River Rail project is set to meet its revised 2029 completion date, with significant progress reported on underground stations and the above-ground Albert Street “green spine.” Authorities confirm that the underground stations’ fit-out will be completed within a year, with the green spine expected to open within months.
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg emphasized the project’s urgency during a press conference on Saturday, revealing that the new budget for the project has soared to $19.04 billion, delayed by three years from its original timeline. Despite the completed stations remaining empty for years due to extensive testing requirements, Mickelberg assured the public that productivity has surged at the work sites.
“Works are really ramping up, and we’re getting on with the job of delivering this really important project,” said Mickelberg, citing a boost in the workforce at the Albert Street site from 150 workers to 350 workers since late 2024. He attributed these improvements to a firm government stance against the CFMEU, which has been linked to a “culture of violence” at certain worksites.
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive Graeme Newton echoed these sentiments, stating that the project is “well past halfway” complete as 2024 comes to a close. He highlighted that intensive construction has been ongoing across the four CBD stations, with a significant focus on architectural and construction work expected in the next 12 months.
“During this next year, we’ll see a lot of construction and architectural work done,” Newton said. “We’re also planning for the next phase, which is testing and commissioning—a very complex project with many moving parts.”
The Albert Street station features a mezzanine level 25 metres underground and a platform that is 32 metres deep, designed with a distinctive rose-gold theme. As the project moves forward, sections of Brisbane’s CBD near the green spine will be closed from December into January for vital street-level work, which includes relocating tracks and signals, limiting train travel during this period.
“This is really the best time of year to do it,” Newton explained. “This work just can’t be done with trains moving across it.”
The Albert Street “green spine” will span between Elizabeth and Mary streets, featuring a pedestrian plaza designed to enhance urban mobility. Newton noted that parts of the green spine will progressively open in early 2025, starting with access to Charlotte Street as safety measures are finalized.
The spacious design of the underground stations aims to create a “giant underground boulevard,” avoiding the claustrophobic feel typical of many underground infrastructures. “This design allows for generous space, making the stations feel more open,” said Russell Vine, CRR’s general manager of communications. The architect’s vision pays homage to the traditional verandah of a Queenslander house.
As the year ends, Brisbane residents and commuters eagerly anticipate the opening of the green spine and the completion of the underground stations—transforming the city’s transport landscape. Continued monitoring of this ambitious project is essential as it progresses towards its new deadlines.
Stay tuned for further updates as this significant infrastructure project unfolds.
