We're lifting 60 concrete L-beams into place this summer as major works continue on the new rail bridge that will replace the level crossing at Mt Derrimut Road in Deer Park.
Two cranes will lift the Victorian-made beams – each weighing over 100 tonnes – onto concrete columns that will support the 1.2km bridge. Pairs of L-beams will be joined together with a concrete “stitch”, forming 30 U-shaped troughs for the trains to run in on the elevated rail line.
The project will minimise traffic disruptions for the community by transporting and installing the beams overnight in stages. Beam lifts for December are now complete, with all L-beams west of Mt Derrimut Road now installed, while the remaining beams will be installed east of Mt Derrimut Road in early 2023.
The rail bridge will be connected over Mt Derrimut Road by a 44m steel bridge span, which will be lifted into place next year.
Elevating the rail line will remove the dangerous and congested level crossing for 23,000 vehicles a day, where the boom gates can be down for up to 60% of the morning peak.
The new, modern Deer Park Station will have elevated platforms - accessible via lifts, stairs and ramps - above a pedestrian walkway connecting both sides of the rail line. A bus interchange, pedestrian and cycling paths, and upgraded passenger facilities including a waiting room, bathrooms and secure bicycle parking are all part of the new precinct.
When the project is complete by 2024, the Geelong and Ballarat lines will be level crossing free between Deer Park and the CBD.
The Level Crossing Removal Project is removing 110 level crossings across Melbourne by 2030, with 67 already gone for good, boosting safety and easing congestion.
