Freight trains are now running on the new rail bridge over Werribee Street, with the level crossing removed.
The new one kilometre rail bridge will also be used by future fast rail services to Geelong, meaning the line is future-proof for increased traffic without increasing road congestion near Werribee.
Currently, long freight trains cause boom gates to be down for long periods, holding up 20,000 drivers who use the crossing.
Also in Werribee, at Cherry Street, the level crossing will be gone by Easter. The works have been fast tracked from their original 2022 completion date. A road bridge will enable cars to cross the rail corridor between Tarneit Road and Princess Highway.
Crews are about to begin work on Old Geelong Road at Hoppers Crossing, also on the Werribee line, with works starting next week. Retaining wall panels will be lifted into place to lay the foundation for a new road bridge.
“We’ve removed 45 dangerous and congested level crossings and we’re not slowing down –this year we’ll remove a level crossing on average every four weeks, boosting safety, easing congestion and creating thousands of jobs,” said Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan.
New housing in the area is putting pressure on transport infrastructure to provide safe and convenient local connections.
“This area is one of the fastest growing communities not only in Victoria but in the nation –and we’re delivering the infrastructure that local people need and deserve.”
Part of the project includes new public space and parkland. A skate park is being built under the tracks and gigantic emu feet sculptures will engage locals from two bridge columns. Emu footprints will connect the sculptures to the Werribee River via a pathway.
Road and traffic signalling upgrades are underway on intersections to improve traffic flow into Werribee CBD.