Construction is underway on the next stage of the Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics (RIFL) hub, which will enable the Bomen Industrial Precinct in Wagga Wagga to export freight across Australia and internationally.
Preliminary site preparation work and earthwork activities are underway, ahead of the construction of power, stormwater and sewerage connections to the industrial precinct and the laying of rail tracks and turnouts.
The precinct aims to make Wagga Wagga a major player in domestic and international freight export.
NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro said this will make the town even more attractive to local and international businesses.
“We are building a safer and stronger regional NSW and this $43.7 million investment from the NSW Government combined with significant investment from Wagga Wagga City Council and commercial partner Visy Logistics will create vital jobs in the Riverina,” he said.
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“This intermodal facility will be a world-class business hub servicing the region’s advanced manufacturing, recycling and renewables industries and help local businesses reap the benefits of the Inland Rail and Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct.”
Regional Transport and Roads Minister Paul Toole said the RIFL hub, the Inland Rail and the Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct will work hand in hand to fast-track access to national and international markets for regional businesses and products.
“When completed, this hub will give regional businesses ready and cost-effective access to markets across Australia and around the world, and there’s never been a more important time as we recover from drought, bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic,” Toole said.
“It’s also going to reduce the number of trucks moving through the Wagga Wagga central business district, giving local roads back to the local community.
“The upgrade will provide the precinct with enabling infrastructure and a 4.9-kilometre master rail siding and container transfer terminal.
NSW MLC Wes Fang said the project will deliver incredible benefits to the Riverina, cementing its reputation as a manufacturing and freight hub.
“This is a great example of how state and local governments can work together with industry to deliver projects that will benefit regional communities and economies in the Riverina for generations to come,” Fang said.
Construction is expected to be completed by mid-2022.