Morningside station is set to reopen on 31 December, just in time for New Year’s Eve celebrations. After 11 months of closure, the station returns with a host of modernized features, aimed at enhancing accessibility, safety, and convenience for all commuters.
Read: Early Works Begin on Morningside Station Accessibility Upgrade
Key features of the upgraded Morningside station include:
– A new footbridge with lift access, improving accessibility for all passengers
– Improved accessible parking, including additional spaces to meet growing demand
– Full-length high-level platforms, making boarding and disembarking easier
– Upgraded hearing augmentation loops and tactile ground surface indicators to support commuters with disabilities
– Enhanced security cameras and lighting to increase safety
– New wayfinding and platform signage for better navigation
– Upgraded station office and facilities to improve customer service
Although trains will resume stopping at Morningside, some finishing touches, including the completion of lifts, landscaping, and civil works, will continue into early next year.
Queensland Rail highlighted the significance of reopening for the local community:
“We’ve listened to our customers, who told us they’ve been looking forward to the stations reopening so they can catch the train again from their local. While trains will be stopping at the stations soon, construction on additional upgrade features and finishing touches will continue into early next year.”
Lindum and Banyo Stations Updates
While Morningside prepares to reopen, Lindum station will also welcome commuters back ahead of Christmas on 23 December. This will provide much-needed relief for locals, especially with traffic congestion caused by construction in the area.
On the other hand, Banyo station’s reopening has been delayed to early 2025 due to challenging site conditions and the impact of heavy rainfall. Southeast Queensland has recorded its wettest December in nearly 15 years, significantly affecting construction timelines.
Community Reactions
The reopening of Morningside station has been met with relief and enthusiasm on social media. Some commuters voiced concerns about parking, with Queensland Rail confirming that over 50 car parks will be available from opening day, with more spaces to be added in the coming months.
Read: Queensland Rail Shows Footage Of Near Misses In New Safety Campaign
The reopening of Morningside station signals a step forward for local commuters, providing a modern, accessible, and safer transit hub as the community looks ahead to celebrating the festive season and the new year.
Published 23-December-2024