Preliminary designs that have been released for the new railway station and elevated train tracks through Melton show an opportunity for better bike links through the rapidly growing city on the fringe of metropolitan Melbourne.
With a new elevated station access for bike riders, pedestrians and bus travel can be greatly improved with space for new paths and safe road crossings.
The addition of secure bike parking will greatly improve the attractiveness of commuting to the station by bike, which should be a first-choice option for the city and surrounds.
With housing now a major expense for every household, it makes no sense to have a valuable motor vehicle sitting idle in a station car park all day.
The new rail bridges over Coburns and Exford roads will also provide opportunities for better bike connections.
The project also includes new road bridges over Ferris Road, and Hopkins Road in Truganina, which also removes barriers which might have obstructed the creation of a first-class bike network linking the new estates to be developed along the rail corridor.
The Level Crossings Removal Project has placed the concepts on exhibition as part of the formal planning process for the undertaking, and it is encouraging feedback from the public.
You can take a survey, ask a question, or attend in-person or on-line information sessions.
Major construction is on track to start this year and be completed in 2026.
The new, modern Melton Station will be built with four platforms to cater for the fastest-growing communities, paving the way for future improvements and increased capacity on the line.
The Melton level crossing removal works will also pave the way for the introduction of larger 9-car VLocity trains as part of the $650 million Melton Line Upgrade, increasing capacity for passengers by 50%.
To support the introduction of 9 car trains, a new train stabling facility is being investigated at Cobblebank where trains would be stored when they are not operating.
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