Intensive works at Frankston in Melbourne’s south are to get underway in May to complete the removal of the level crossing between Skye and Overton roads and the construction of the suburb’s new station.
For the works to go ahead, buses will replace trains on the Frankston Line between Frankston and Carrum from 4 May to 27 May, and between Frankston and Kananook from May 28 to June 17. Buses will also replace trains on the Stony Point Line between Leawarra and Kananook from May 28 to June 17.
Skye Road and Overton road will be closed at the level crossing between April 6 and June 4.
“By mid-year, this dangerous level crossing will be gone, and passengers will be using the new Frankston Station,” Victoria’s premier Daniel Andrews said.
“We promised to remove 20 dangerous level crossings by the end of 2018 and we are delivering – to reduce congestion, boost safety and get Victorians home safer and sooner.”
The removal of the level crossing will be accompanied by the erection of a rail bridge above the road. 24 u-shaped viaducts, each weighing 280 tonnes, will be transport from a factory in Kilmore to the Frankston site. Precast beams will then be put in place by specialist heavy-lifting machinery.
VicRoads and the Level Crossing Removal Authority are working together to complete the complex logistical task.
“It’s exciting to see the project team thinking outside the box with this unique bridge design, which will be part of delivering more trains more often for Frankston line passengers,” state transport minister Jacinta Allan said.