Jannali train station has been transformed with the completion of a major upgrade.
Transport Minister Andrew Constance, with Miranda MP Eleni Petinos, officially opened the improvements, including lifts and a pedestrian footbridge, making it easier for less mobile people, including those with a disability and parents with prams, to move between the station and shops at Jannali.
The new footbridge connects Jannali Avenue with Railway Parade.
Passengers welcomed the improvements – but there was also some criticism.
Phil Martin, of Oyster Bay, who has been using the station for 50 years, said it would be great no longer having to walk over the road bridge.
“First impressions are it is very good,” he said.
Helena Solomon said the lifts would be a great help for people with mobility issues.
Trish MacLachlan, of Jannali, welcomed the easier access for people with mobility problems and parents with prams, but was disappointed with the aesthetics.
“It is a little bare compared with Oatley station [where the fancy footbridge was a talking point when an upgrade was completed last year],” she said.
“I think we got the cheap Sutherland Shire version.”
Mr Constance said the footbridge and two new lifts enhanced accessibility at the station, which has been upgraded under the NSW Government’s Transport Access Program, an initiative to provide safe, modern and accessible public transport infrastructure.
“We’re committed to improving public transport infrastructure and it’s great to be getting on with the job of delivering major improvements for our T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra Line customers,” he said.
“A bus shelter closer to the station entrance on Jannali Avenue has been constructed, along with a new bus zone on Mitchell Avenue and kiss and ride spaces on Railway Crescent.
“Improvements to the Oxley Avenue car park and footpath to the station have also been completed.
“Upgrades to lighting and CCTV surveillance have improved safety.”
Mr Constance said a further $200 million had been committed to the Transport Access Program, taking its investment to over $1 billion since 2011, with 450 projects either completed or underway across the state.
“This additional funding will be used for planning at five stations, including Como,” he said.
“Completed upgrades on the line include a new commuter car park with 100 spaces, new lift and pedestrian footbridge at Oatley and new commuter car park, footpath and lighting at Engadine.”
