The dangerous and congested Cardinia Road level crossing in Pakenham is now gone for good, with traffic travelling over the new Cardinia Road bridge for the first time on Sunday 6 December.
Construction of the new road bridge over the Pakenham Line ramped up in recent months. The new bridge is open months ahead of the original 2021 completion date.
Other parts of the project also remain on track for early completion.
Landscaping has started, with 38,000 trees, shrubs and grasses to be planted. More than a kilometre of new pedestrian and shared paths will open early next year, connecting residents to Cardinia Road Station, local bus stops and the Lakeside Shopping Centre.
Work on a new community open space under the road bridge will start early next year. The size of 4 tennis courts, it is set to become a place for locals to come together, exercise and relax.
