Work has begun to remove the dangerous and congested Melton Highway level crossing in Sydenham, which will see a new 6-lane road bridge built over the Sunbury Line to safely separate trains from traffic, cyclists and pedestrians.
A site compound has been installed and work is now underway to set up the site yard that will be the base for around 300 workers throughout the project.
Works to relocate underground utilities in preparation for major construction will begin soon.
The Melton Highway boom gates are down for around 24 minutes in the 2-hour morning peak, causing congestion and frustration in Melbourne's west.
The removal of the boom gates will benefit around 38,000 vehicles that use the level crossing each weekday.
Some traffic changes near the level crossing are already in place to allow for works.
Sydenham Road will remain closed at the intersection of Melton Highway for the duration of the works, and will reopen and connect with Victoria Road underneath the new road bridge once it is complete. Detours are now in place.
The new Melton Highway road bridge will create better walking and cycling paths, and new community open space, both important issues to local residents.
The $46 million Melton Highway level crossing removal project will be complete late 2018.