Two Mernda Line level crossing projects have taken home top honours at the Infrastructure Sustainability Council annual awards.
The Preston project has won the Sustainability Leadership, Outstanding Achievement award for its exemplary use of sustainable infrastructure.
Four level crossings were removed at Preston via a new rail bridge over Oakover Road, Bell Street, Cramer Street and Murray Road, and brand new Preston and Bell stations built with modern amenities.
The project was recognised for its 47% reduction in emissions, 24% reduction in materials emissions and 105% increase in ecological value.
Elevating the rail line also created 3 MCG’s worth of open space in the rail corridor, so locals can now enjoy new open spaces with barbecue facilities, seating, play areas and landscaping with native plants.
About 82,000 vehicles used the level crossings every day, with the boom gates down for 40% of the morning peak.
Removing them has eased congestion and improved safety on local roads, while the new stations have improved access to public transport.
The level crossings were removed for good in 2022, with trains now travelling over the rail bridge.
Keon Parade keen on sustainability
Meanwhile, the Keon Parade level crossing removal and brand new Keon Park Station won an Excellence in Economics award for its Recycled First Competition.
The competition was a transformative sustainability initiative aimed at overcoming barriers to using recycled materials in infrastructure projects.
The project achieved this by engaging with existing suppliers of recycled products to understand the challenges of using their products in infrastructure projects and by supporting investment in initiatives to remove barriers to their use.
The dangerous and congested Keon Parade level crossing was removed in 2024 by building a rail bridge over the road, improving journey times and increasing safety.
The brand new Keon Park Station opened in June with modern facilities for passengers and created a vibrant station precinct with improved accessibility and connections to local neighbourhoods.
We're removing 110 level crossings by 2030, with 84 already gone for good.