New boom barriers in Kerang are expected to make life easier for everyone near the rail line.
SAFETY for motorists and train passengers in Victoria’s north has been boosted, the state government says, thanks to upgrades to four level crossings at Kerang.
Works to commission boom barriers at the level crossings have significantly improved safety for motorists, pedestrians and train passengers along the Echuca line.
The $3.6 million safety upgrades kicked off in March, with crews installing boom barriers at the level crossings in Murray Street, Victoria Street, Vaughan Street and Wellington Street in Kerang.
The four crossings already had flashing lights and bells and the installation of boom barriers will further improve safety.
A crew of more than 40 workers completed the upgrades on Sunday 7 March, with all four level crossings now operational with boom barriers.
Crews also commissioned new signalling and track equipment in the Kerang area to support the upgraded crossings.
The pedestrian crossings at both Vaughan Street and Victoria Street were also upgraded to improve accessibility and installed lighting for improved visibility at night.
The upgrades were completed as part of V/Line’s Annual Works Plan, which focusses on ensuring the ongoing upkeep of the network so it can continue to offer safe and reliable services to regional communities.
Crews continue to follow strict protocols as set out by the Department of Health and Human Services on work sites, to help protect the health and safety of workers and the community.
Public transport minister Ben Carroll said their works to upgrade level crossings would improve safety and reliability for local communities.
“These upgrades in Kerang will significantly improve safety and allow more modern trains to run through the growing regional community,” Carroll said.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp said their priority was community safety.
“Our priority remains the safety of our community and these upgrades are another positive outcome for locals and visitors to the area,” Gepp said.