Millions in federal funding has been unlocked by the Morrison Government to ensure a business case gets underway for the Glenferrie Road level crossing removal in Kooyong.
The project will bust congestion and mean a smoother and quicker commute for thousands of motorists across Melbourne’s south-east every day.
$8 million for a business case will flow to the Victorian Government to get the job underway.
Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the business case was the crucial first step to removing the level crossing that caused a headache for motorists everyday.
“This funding means we can start vital scoping and early development works for the level crossing removal,” Mr Tudge said.
“It’s also part of the Morrison’s Government priority to support local jobs, businesses and economies during the COVID-19 recovery.”
The Morrison Government is also providing another $2 million for initial feasability studies into the removal of the level crossings at Tooronga Road in Tooronga and Madden Grove in Burnley, as part of an integrated plan to bust congestion right across South East Melbourne.
Treasurer and Federal Member for Kooyong Josh Frydenberg said the business case would examine the benefits and costings to determine a preferred design for the project, ensuring works deliver the best outcomes for the economy and community.
“This business case will accelerate the delivery of this critical project by undertaking essential scoping works as well as early development work, including surveying and geotechnical studies,” Mr Frydenberg said.
“Busting congestion along this busy route will be a major boost for local businesses, sporting clubs and residents alike, which is needed now more than ever.
“Injecting much-needed infrastructure funding into the Victorian economy and creating jobs is a top priority as we make our way through the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Federal Member for Higgins Katie Allen said the level crossing caused significant congestion and frustration for the thousands of cars and countless trams travelling on Glenferrie Road each day.
“This is one of the few level crossing intersections remaining in Melbourne where trains, trams and vehicles intersect – with around 24 trains in the peak period between 7 am and 9 am meaning the boom gate is closed for almost a third of the morning,” Dr Allen said.
“Not only is it frustrating, the Glenferrie Road crossing was noted as a high priority for removal in the Victorian Auditor General’s December 2017 report into Managing the Level Crossing Removal Program.
“We have listened and we have acted by fully funding the business case and project that will deliver a level crossing removal to bust congestion and improve safety to support a smoother, more reliable journey for commuters.”
The Glenferrie Road level crossing was listed as one of 20 high priority level crossings to be removed in a 2013 VicRoads study.
The 2013 VicRoads study showed that the Glenferrie level crossing was one of the worst in the area adding to significant congestion on a key arterial corridor in south east Melbourne, causing delays and frustration for the thousands of vehicles that travel through the area each day.
