The Victorian Government has announced that another eight level crossing removals will be completed by 2027, as part of Victoria’s Big Build.
Another 8 dangerous and congested level crossings are set to go from the Upfield Line, clearing the way for more frequent services for passengers in Melbourne’s north.
Level crossings are set to go from Albert Street, Albion Street, Brunswick Road, Dawson Street, Hope Street, Union Street, Victoria Street (all Brunswick) and Park Street (Parkville).
The removals will aim to increase the safety of local roads, improve traffic flow and clear the way for more trains, more often.
Around 71,000 vehicles travel over the level crossings each weekday, when up to 16 trains pass through and the boom gates are down for up to 30 minutes of the 2-hour morning peak period. 36 near misses have been recorded at these locations since 2016.
Initial technical assessments indicate an elevated rail bridge is the best design to remove these level crossings, complementing the new rail bridge from Bell Street to Moreland Road. Community consultation and further project design will occur early next year.
In the past six years, the State Government has removed 66 level crossings more than a year ahead of schedule – while also building 37 new and upgraded stations.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said the projects would help to improve travel times for Victorians.
“Every Victorian knows the dinging sound of boom gates coming down and the frustration that comes with it, that’s why we’re getting rid of them – saving lives and easing congestion,” Allan said.
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