The South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication is complete, following critical upgrade works delivered by the Federal and Victorian Governments.
Trains will return on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines, following intensive works that duplicated eight kilometres of track, upgraded Marshall and South Geelong stations and removed two dangerous level crossings.
Trains will now travel over new rail bridges at Fyans Street and Surf Coast Highway, with the removal of the two level crossings reducing congestion for the tens of thousands of drivers that use these roads each day.
Fyans Street will feature a new streamlined road alignment, along with picnic facilities and rest areas available in the new open space around the rail bridge.
The duplication of more than 8km of track between South Geelong Station and Breakwater Road, and from Marshalltown Road to Waurn Ponds Station, will improve reliability for services – making it easier for trains to pass each other and reducing unexpected delays.
The project’s upgrades have also increased capacity on the line to allow for future additional services between Marshall and Waurn Pond stations, which both feature a second platform, accessible pedestrian overpasses, 300 new car parking spaces, improved shelter and CCTV to improve safety for passengers.
Crews will continue minor works at the stations including finishing the Yarra Street car park entrance and lifts at South Geelong Station, and the forecourt and lifts at Marshall Station, with work on landscaping and walking and cycling paths to continue in spring.
Upgrades to train detection technology have also been completed on the remaining public level crossings between Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool as part of Stage 2 of the Warrnambool Line Upgrade, which will enable the introduction of VLocity trains by the end of the year.
The South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication total project cost is $933.6 million, with the Federal Government committing $784.1 million.
Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Member for Corio, Richard Marles, said, “This project is delivering the improvements needed to support the growth of Geelong, now and into the future, as it continues to thrive.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said, “Our massive investment in rail upgrades in Geelong and Warrnambool is delivering huge benefits for local motorists and train passengers.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King, said, “The Australian Government is delivering critical rail upgrades to Geelong and Warrnambool, which will allow commuters to enjoy safer, quicker and more reliable journeys.”
Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson, said, “The Geelong community has said a big goodbye to two congested level crossings, with thousands of drivers to enjoy smoother and safer journeys on the Surf Coast Highway and Fyans Street every day.”
Image: Henk Vrieselaar/shutterstock.com
