Work on the stage 1B of Yarra Valley Trail has pushed through Yering and is heading towards Yarra Glen.
The project will deliver 1.1km of trail along the historic former Lilydale to Healesville railway line and the restoration of two heritage bridges.
These iconic bridges will be preserved and reinforced with a concealed steel framework, ensuring their longevity and safety.
Traffic control measures are in place on Melba Highway during construction hours to ensure the safety of workers and motorists.
Stage 1B will form part of an 11km off-road route stretching from Lilydale to Yarra Glen. This trail will connect users to the Yarra Valley Railway, the Yarra Valley Trail Northern Loop and future extensions, including Stage 2A from Yarra Glen to Tarrawarra.
"The completion of this stage is a significant milestone," says Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Sophie Todorov. "It brings us one step closer to realising the full vision of the Yarra Valley Trail, a project that will benefit our community for years to come.
"The Yarra Valley Trail already goes from Lilydale to Coldstream with plans that it will connect up to Healesville and then onto Seville and link with the Warburton to Lilydale Trail.
"Our trails are incredibly popular and help to improve our wellbeing and social connection," says Cr Todorov.
Meanwhile, construction is set to begin on the Warburton Mountain Biking Destination, designed to be one of the nation’s major MTB attractions.
Planning has been underway since 2013 and designs have met stringent environmental requirements.
Stage 1 will bring see the creation of more than 100km of new and upgraded trails. The first are set to open to the public in early 2025.