Contract awarded for the Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project

The contract for the Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project has been formally awarded to an alliance including LendLease, CPB Contractors, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff, Aurecon and Metro Trains Melbourne. Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan, joined Treasurer Tim Pallas to announce the news today with construction to being within a few weeks.

This $1.6 billion project aims to remove nine dangerous level crossing and build five new stations. The project is also aiming to upgrade signalling and power as well as create 11 MCG’s of new public open space.

“The project to eliminate these congested death traps is about to begin, and 2000 jobs are about to be created.” – Treasurer Tim Pallas

The Level Crossing Removal Project together with the 65 new high-capacity Metro Trains that the Labor Government ordered will create space for 11,000 extra passengers who can catch the train on Melbourne’s busiest rail line.

“This project will deliver more room, on more trains to carry more people on Melbourne’s busiest rail line. It’s needed now, and we’re not going to waste a day – we’re going to get it done.” – Treasurer Tim Pallas

Project Overview (Image source: Level Crossing Removal Authority)

Improved reliability of the metropolitan, regional and freight services is the main goal of the project, which means that trains will be able to arrive on time more often.

The project will convert rail and rocks into kilometres of new parks, paths and open space by elevating the existing line. This will be overseen by an expert panel headed by CEO of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Tim Entwisle. A Trust fund has been created to ensure the space remains safe, cared for and will stay green.

“Removing these crossing will relieve pressure on our roads and trains, and make communities along this line better places to live, with new parks, less traffic and more trains.” – Minister Jacinta Allan

The Consultation Outcomes and Submissions Report, which summarises feedback that the project received from the community, was released today by the Level Crossing Removal Authority.

As a result of the feedback from the community, a series of measures have been integrated into the project. These include:

• Escalators at all the new stations
• Additional bike paths with better lighting
• Noise walls along the structure 
• More car parking

Construction will begin on the Caulfield to Dandenong project at the end of this month. It will begin with the installation of fences as well as site preparations which utilises various equipment such as site sheds or ablution blocks and generators.

Watch this space for more updates on the Level Crossing Removal Project. Subscribe to Felix Project News today and stay up to date with the latest industry news and project updates.

Author's note: Original article is from the Premier of Victoria