Major works ramping up this winter

We’re making the Frankston Line level crossing free by 2029 – unlocking new community space, improving safety, reducing congestion and allowing more trains to run more often.

Works are ramping up this winter, and work to prepare for construction of the new rail bridges has begun. In August, we’ll begin hardstand construction, demolish parts of the existing station precinct and continue piling to prepare for construction of the rail bridges.

To facilitate construction of the new rail bridges and station precinct, there’ll be some changes to the way you move around the area. In August, Bear Street and the Mordialloc Stabling Yard pedestrian underpass will permanently close.

To keep Frankston Line passengers moving while we build the new rail bridges and Mordialloc Station, passengers will access train services in both directions from Platform 1 under an altered timetable. With works progressing in Mordialloc, we’ve been out and about in the community.

Read on to find out more about what we've been up to and upcoming works.

Why these level crossings need to go

• Around 26,000 vehicles travel through these 3 level crossings every day
• Boom gates are down for approximately 40 minutes of the morning peak (7am to 9am)
• 33 trains during the morning peak
• 12 near misses at these crossings since 2016 and one fatality.

Major construction kicks off

Works are ramping up this winter and piling works have begun, marking the start of the foundations of the new rail bridges.

Construction of the new rail bridge has begun and in the coming months works will include the demolition of parts of the existing station precinct, piling, and the installation of piers and beams.

In Aspendale, we are carrying out earthworks, utility relocations, drainage and piling between Attenborough Road and James Street. Some of these piles will form the foundation for more than 25 concrete piers, which will support the rail bridge. Each pier requires 6 piles drilled up to approximately 30m deep.

To dig the piles, we’re using a 150-tonne piling rig capable of drilling with 50 tonnes of torque per metre. This means for each metre the drill goes down, it's using the same power it would take to turn 50 tonnes of weight.

Each pile is filled with about 36 cubic metres of high-strength concrete – the weight equivalent of 14 African elephants. Once poured, a crane lowers a steel cage into the concrete to reinforce the pile.

On average, the team completes 2 to 3 piles a day, with a skilled 7-person crew working to keep things moving.

In addition to piling, we will begin constructing hardstand and the new rail viaduct, install beams and demolish parts of the existing station.

During major works you’ll notice an increase in workers, work vehicles, machinery and activity on site.

Thanks for your patience while we get on with building the new rail bridges, Mordialloc station and nearby road upgrades.

Construction in numbers

• Install 4900 new concrete sleepers
• Lay 6500m of new track
• Pour 14,000 cubic metres of concrete
• Dig 1242m of trench
• Underbore 2976m
• Drill over 1000 sheet piles.

Travel changes

To facilitate construction of the new rail bridges and station precinct, there'll be some changes to the way you move around the area.

Bear Street permanent closure

Bear Street will close permanently to vehicles overnight on Monday 4 August between Albert Street and Nepean Highway, to enable construction of the new rail bridges. Drivers can access Nepean Highway via McDonald and White streets. Pedestrian access through Bear Street will be maintained, with temporary detours in place at times. Closing Bear Street will create space for a vibrant new station precinct, with safer connections to transport and nearby shops. There may be some local congestion while we complete the remaining works. Once the level crossings are removed and trains are running on the new rail bridges, drivers will see improved traffic flow through the new boom-gate free area. We thank you for your patience during this time.

Mordialloc Stabling Yard underpass permanent closure

The new rail bridges in Mordialloc and Aspendale will descend to connect into the existing Mordialloc Stabling Yard and the rail bridge over Mordialloc Creek.

To maintain the stabling yard’s capacity and functionality, we need to adjust the layout and extend the tracks to ensure there is sufficient space for trains to park. As part of this, the Mordialloc Stabling Yard pedestrian underpass will permanently close from Monday 18 August.

Locals can continue to use alternate routes via Mordialloc Creek bridge, Longbeach Trail and Mordialloc Creek Trail. As part of the project, we’ll build a new path connection next to the stabling yard, which will link into the existing paths at George Woods Reserve and Park Street.

To find out more about why the underpass must close, view the Mordialloc Stabling Yard underpass closure fact sheet.

Keeping the Frankston Line moving during major works

We’ll keep Frankston Line passengers moving during major construction by introducing single line running at Mordialloc Station.

Single line running is where trains run in both directions on a single track during major works – reducing the need for planned rail disruptions and passengers on rail replacement buses.

Changes to travel

From 29 August 2025 to mid 2026, we'll close Platform 2 at Mordialloc Station and services in both directions will run from Platform 1. Passengers can access Platform 1 via McDonald, Bear and Main streets.

While these changes are in place, you can expect minor timetable changes on the Frankston Line, with some reduced services.

Majority of the Mordialloc Station car park is now closed. Accessible car spaces remain available outside Platform 1. From 8.30pm Monday 18 August, the station underpass will close. Alternative parking is available at:

• Parkdale Station, Como Parade East and West
• Mentone Station, Como Parade East and West
• Cheltenham Station car park and on Edward Street
• Kingston City Council residents with a valid beach parking permit can park at Peter Scullin Reserve.

Mordialloc Station will remain open throughout most of the construction period. We'll communicate any changes in advance, including when buses replace trains.

If you're heading into the city, catch an earlier train to make your journey smoother. With slightly reduced services on the Frankston Line, trains may be busier than usual during peak times.

We encourage you to plan ahead and check timetable information on the PTV website, or via passenger information displays at your station.

To prepare for services running in both directions from Platform 1, buses will replace trains from 8.30pm Monday 18 to last service Thursday 28 August between Cheltenham, Frankston and Stony Point stations. At times, buses will extend to Caulfield and Moorabbin.

Local legends: Alby’s Deli

Hannah and Jay are owners of Alby’s Deli, along with their baby Prince, who has become a familiar face amongst locals. We chatted with Hannah and Jay about Alby’s Deli, how they got started and why they love Mordialloc.

How did Alby's Deli get started?

Alby's Deli started with a love for good food, coffee and bringing people together. We wanted to create a space that felt local, relaxed, and full of flavour, and Mordialloc felt like the right fit from the beginning.

What’s popular at Alby’s Deli?

Our most-loved sandwich is the Chicken Delight, followed closely by the Prosciutto. Both are packed with flavour and made fresh to order. A personal favourite is our house-made chilli oil, which makes its way onto just about everything! On the drinks side, the strawberry matcha has definitely become a fan favourite.

What do you love about the Mordialloc community?

The support has been incredible from the moment we opened and so many locals have become regulars. It’s been really special watching them get to know Prince, from when he was just a bump to now. The warmth and kindness from the community have meant the world to us.

What’s been your proudest moment so far?

Finally opening after a long lead-up was huge for us. More recently, we hosted a free community event and have loved collaborating with other local businesses through giveaways and partnerships. We're also incredibly proud of the team we've built, especially Nelson who has been with us since the beginning. He plays such a key role in what we do.

Alby's Deli is open and trading throughout Albert Street construction works.

“Pop down for a coffee, strawberry matcha, sweet treat or one of our much loved sandwiches. We’d love to see you!” – Hannah, Alby’s Deli

Visit us:

53a Albert Street Mordialloc

Monday to Saturday, 6am to 3pm and

Sunday 8am to 1.30pm

Follow us:

@albysdeli_mordi

Community spotlight

Mordialloc Spend Win

The April Spend Win competition wrapped up with over 2,000 entries in six weeks, showcasing strong community support for local businesses during the McDonald Street closure. Thanks to everyone who entered and to the local traders who helped bring the competition to life.

Mordi little learners

The project visited Mordialloc Neighbourhood House for a fun, transport-themed story time and activity session. We read construction stories to local children, and hosted colouring in and dress up activities. The children were excited to try on hard-hats and learn more about what's happening in their local area.

Weaving Mordialloc together

A vibrant new woven art installation, PROGRESS, created by local group Mordi Weavers, has brightened the corner of Bear Street and Main Street Service Road in Mordialloc. The artwork celebrates the importance of community connection. Check it out in person, or read more online at levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/ mordialloc

Project timeline

Late 2022

• McDonald and Bear streets, Mordialloc and Station Street, Aspendale level crossing removal projects announced

Early to mid 2023

• Early site investigations
• Community consultation

Mid to late 2023

• Early site investigations complete
• Early concept designs released with community consultation
• Planning consultation

Early 2024

• Contract awarded for works

Mid 2024

• Updated designs released
• Site establishment and early works begin

Late 2024

• Early works continue

Early 2025

• Final designs released

Mid 2025

• Major construction starts

2026

• Level crossings removed
• Project completed

Timeline subject to change