Newly appointed Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan begun her first day on the job in Pakenham, joining local MP Emma Vulin for a visit of level crossing removal works at Pakenham station on Thursday 28 September.
Premier Allan used the Main Street visit to announce that works to make Pakenham level-crossing free by 2025 will be delivered more than a year ahead of schedule.
Works to make level crossings at McGregor, Main and Racecourse roads a thing of the past are powering ahead, with the elevated rail bridge structure nearly complete – ready for the new train track to be installed later next month.
“Work on removing Pakenham’s level crossings is ahead of schedule, paving the way for more trains, more often as we get ready for opening the Metro Tunnel,“ Premier Allan said.
Pakenham MP Emma Vulin welcomed the development of the works.
“It’s fantastic to see the Pakenham level crossing removal project progressing and the rail bridge taking shape – our growing suburb will be level crossing free next year, boosting safety and easing congestion,“ Ms Vulin said.
As part of Pakenham’s level crossing works, the metropolitan rail line will be extended by 2.5km to the brand-new Pakenham East Station, delivering an extra transport option for Melbourne’s newest suburb and delivering more trains when the Metro Tunnel opens in 2025 – cutting travel times by up to 50 minutes a day.
To date, the government has removed 72 level crossings – well ahead of schedule – improving safety and travel times across Melbourne and unlocking more than 31 MCGs of open space, creating new parks, playgrounds, pedestrian and cycling paths across the city.
The State Government is also upgrading roads in this growing area of Melbourne, with the duplication of the Healesville–Kooweerup Road also to be completed next year.
By 2030, 110 level crossings will have been removed and the Frankston, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Lilydale, Sunbury and Werribee lines will be level crossing-free – boosting safety and easing congestion right across Melbourne.
