The Victorian Government has released the final designs for a new rail bridge in Macleod, which will replace the existing Ruthven Street level crossing.
The bridge’s design, which has been shaped by community feedback, will connect Rosanna Parklands with Ellesmere Parade and Ruthven Street and feature native plants and seating.
Additionally, a new walking and cycling path will be built along Ellesmere Parade, connecting Macleod and Rosanna.
Major construction will begin later this year, with trains running on the new rail bridge from 2027.
Passengers are set to benefit from extra services on the Hurstbridge Line with trains every 20 minutes to Eltham every weekend, and services running every 10 minutes on average between the Melbourne Central Business District and Clifton Hill.
Meanwhile, early work has already started on the removal of the Ruthven Street level crossing.
The state government has called the level crossing dangerous and congested and aims to make journeys for motorists along the route safer and faster.
Boom gate down time will be reduced by 30 minutes during the morning peak, while travel times will be cut for about 12,600 drivers each weekday.
The final designs for this removal have also been shaped by community feedback which aims to create safer connections for locals – including the installation of traffic loops which will trigger traffic lights along Ruthven Street.
“Thanks to everyone who had their say on the early designs, with more than 400 pieces of feedback from the community helping to shape these final designs,” said Anthony Carbines, State Member for Ivanhoe.
The State Government aims to make Macleod level crossing free in 2027 to improve safety, reduce congestion and deliver more reliable travel times, building on the benefits delivered by the nearby North East Link Project.
The final designs can be viewed here.
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