Parramatta's renowned 'Eat Street' is now open following the completion of major light rail construction along the dining strip.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the removal of construction fencing was even more significant as NSW opens back up after months of restrictions.
"We know how much the local community loves the Eat Street dining strip and it's incredibly exciting to have it open as we head into the first weekend since restrictions were eased," Mr Perrottet said.
"We know it's been a tough time for local businesses and I want to thank them for their support and patience. It's great to see all of the hard work has now paid off, with a modern and sophisticated dining strip open for business in the heart of Parramatta."
More than 350 people worked on the Parramatta Light Rail project each day and night on Eat Street, which involved installing 717 metres of dual-track, using 86 tonnes of steel, 891 cubic metres of concrete, relocating 300 utilities, and hand-fitting 300,000 cobblestone pavers between the tracks as well as 34,000 footpath pavers.
Minister for Transport and Roads Rob Stokes said this was a great opportunity for locals and visitors to familiarise themselves with the rejuvenated area before trams start rolling in 2023.
"By giving the community access to the pedestrianised boulevard, we hope to better educate the community on how to use the area safely," Mr Stokes said.
"With more people out and about enjoying Eat Street, the dining precinct is sure to become Western Sydney's most vibrant food and entertainment hotspot."
Major construction on Eat Street commenced in June 2020, with the construction approach designed to minimise impacts and support businesses as much as possible.
Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee said the combination of innovative technology and active engagement with businesses and stakeholders have been the cornerstone to delivering this achievement.
"This included using state-of-the-art 3D technology. We identified and relocated 300 utilities in the CBD prior to major construction. We also used a micro-tunneling boring machine to construct drainage underground to minimise noise, dust and vibration above the ground," Mr Lee said.
"We formed a Business Reference Group to give businesses and stakeholders a 'voice' on key decisions, and we continue to offer businesses free support services, including one-on-one advisory services and local campaigns to encourage footfall."
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Steven Issa said people will be amazed when they see how much Eat Street has transformed during lockdown.
"Eat Street is Western Sydney's premier dining strip, and these businesses are the lifeblood of our community, so it's fantastic to see them welcoming back customers as the City opens up and Parramatta Light Rail edges closer to completion. I encourage everyone to come down and experience the revitalised Eat Street."
'Eat Street Uncovered', a TfNSW activation, will be rolled out over the coming months to celebrate the completion of major works on the dining strip, in a COVID safe way.
Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia, and is expected to commence services in 2023.
