The dangerous and congested level crossing at Surf Coast Highway is being removed as part of the South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication.
New rail bridge benefits
The new elevated rail bridge and embankment are being built to the south of the current track, moving the track away from local residents. This will reduce disruption to Surf Coast Highway traffic and Geelong Line train services, and has allowed the new elevated rail bridge to be built away from the existing track.
Moving the track south straightens the track in this area to improve how trains run on this part of the new rail line. This makes room for green open space as well as bike and pedestrian paths which will connect homes with the rail line.
Key benefits include:
- reduced construction impacts
- reduced risk of future flood events impacting train services in this area
- integration with the future Bellarine Link extension, creating a dedicated transport corridor
- integration with transport
- boost safety and traffic flow for around 29,000 vehicles that travel through this area every day
- new cycling and walking path connections
- motorists no longer need to wait at the boom gates (currently down for 22% of the morning peak and 15% of the evening peak)
Why is an elevated rail bridge the best solution?
Elevating the rail bridge was identified as the best solution for both level crossing removals. It will reduce disruption to road and rail users during construction, minimise flood risks, and create space for and green open areas.
Both level crossing sites have complex environmental, community and technical considerations.
Several designs were assessed during the planning phase. Technical studies, site constraints, construction impacts, community impacts and urban design opportunities were used to find the right design solution.
