Labor has removed another dangerous and congested level crossing, delivering faster and safer journeys for Melbourne’s booming west.
The new Ferris Road bridge opened to traffic in Melton this morning – marking the 92nd level crossing now gone for good.
The level crossing removal will slash 28 minutes of boom gate down time in the morning peak – with around 16,000 vehicles using the crossing each day.
The new, modern and accessible Melton Station will open on 1 September.
Longer 9-car VLocity trains will be able to stop at Melton Station one year ahead of schedule – boosting passenger capacity by 50 per cent on peak services, from next year.
The new transport hub will improve connections between trains, buses and parking, while a new station underpass will provide a new rail line crossing.
These works are vital to ensure the future electrification of the Melton Line, backed by a $152.7 million investment by the Allan and Albanese Labor Governments.
Finishing works across the transport hub will continue until later this year, including construction of a new bus interchange, station facilities, forecourts, and landscaping.
Melton will soon be boom gate free, with two more level crossings on track for removal this year at Coburns and Exford Roads.
Works to finish building the new elevated station and rail bridges will continue, with buses replacing trains on sections of the Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines from 12 to 31 August.
Exford Road will be closed at the level crossing from 11 August until 31 August, with Coburns Road closed from 6 to 24 September.
Labor is removing 110 level crossings by 2032, transforming the way people live, work and travel.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Transport Infrastructure Nick Staikos
“We’re delivering safer trips for Melbourne’s west, with Melton soon to be boom gate free and a modern and accessible Melton Station opening to passengers in September.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie
“The removal of the Ferris Road level crossing will help keep our growing community safe, moving, and on time.”
Quote attributable to Member for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch
“These upgrades pave the way for more frequent services and greater capacity as the west continues to grow.”
