Elevated rail

The Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project is removing 9 level crossings, rebuilding 5 stations and creating new open spaces on the Cranbourne-Pakenham rail line.

The 9 level crossings will be removed by a design that includes a series of 3 elevated sections of track, which will free up traffic and remove the barrier between communities.

The new design for the elevated rail structure has been finalised and will deliver the following:

• an overall reduction in noise throughout the rail corridor and surrounding area
• an overall improvement in local air quality compared to pollutants generated by current rail operations
• slim line piers to minimise the impact on visual amenity and overshadowing
• dual independent elevated track to allow sunlight and rain to reach trees, gardens, playgrounds and community facilities underneath
• barriers along the length of the elevated rail structure to protect against derailment and reduce noise generated from train wheels
• the space between piers has been maximised to reduce the visible bulk of the structure. The space between the structures will be around 40m in length along the corridor and 27m at the stations.

Screening on the elevated structure

Screening on the elevated structure will serve multiple purposes, including reducing noise, providing privacy for residents that abut the rail corridor and enhancing the overall look of the elevated rail structure.

The entire elevated structure will feature treatments of varying heights. Designs and screening materials will be finalised in early 2017.