The Victorian government has announced the successful contractor for Stage 2 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade.
A Coleman Rail and KBR joint venture has won the contract, which includes infrastructure upgrades to allow VLocity trains to run on the line, replacing locomotive hauled N-type carriages.
The project involves the extension of platforms at Mooroopna, Murchinson East and Nagambie stations to enable the VLocity trains to stop there. A new stabling facility north of Shepparton Station will also be built.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said the project will improve services for communities along the line.
“The Shepparton Line is a vitally important part of our regional train network, which is why the Victorian government has invested $356 million in the first two stages of this major upgrade,” she said.
“It will give Shepparton passengers the modern and reliable trains they’ve been calling for and provide more services more often.”
Other works included in the contract include upgrades to 59 level crossings between Donnybrook and Shepparton. The crossing loop near Murchinson East will be extended to enable trains to pass each other.
Since Stage 1 was completed, an extra 10 services a week have run on the line. Stage 2 is expected to be completed in 2022.
Stage 2 also includes a business to finalise the cope and cost of delivering nine return services a day between Shepparton and Melbourne
Once Stage 2 is completed, a further stage will include upgrades to allow trains to travel at up to 130 km/h and further signalling upgrades to enable the extra return services to Melbourne.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp said the upgrade would not only benefit passengers.
“This upgrade is giving Shepparton residents access to modern transport infrastructure and making it easier than ever to enjoy the comfort of travelling by train.”
“Drivers will also see the benefits of the level crossing upgrades, which will make crossing the line much safer for motorists.”