By CHARLENE MACAULAY
THE Regional Rail Link (RRL) project will be going full steam ahead over the summer holidays to take advantage of lower commuter numbers.
The $4.8 billion project will reach a major milestone on 22 December with the opening of two new platforms at Southern Cross station and the project’s first section of dedicated V/Line tracks, which means trains on the Geelong line will have a clear run to Southern Cross and won’t have to wait behind metropolitan trains.
Following this, a construction blitz from 28 December to 19 January will see the next stages of the project begin to take shape, including:
– The revamping of Footscray and Sunshine train stations, including new platforms on the Irving St side of Footscray train station;
– The removal of the Anderson Rd level crossing; and
– The demolition of the old Nicholson Street bridge and the installation of the new bridge.
“With Regional Rail Link on budget and ahead of schedule, passengers are going to progressively start seeing benefits well before the project’s completion,” Public Transport Minister Terry Mulder said.
“Over late December and early January, public transport patronage reduces by up to a half, and doesn’t return to normal levels until the end of February.
“Completing works over this quieter period will help to minimise the effect on rail passengers while making significant progress in a short time.”
A combination of shuttle train services and replacement buses will operate along the Sunbury line while the works are carried out.
Metro will also run an amended timetable across most metropolitan lines from 22 December to 26 January to accommodate the construction works.
The RRL will create capacity for an extra 23 suburban and 10 regional services during each morning and evening at peak times, allowing an extra 54,000 passenger trips each day.
For full details on all road and rail closures, maintenance, renewal works and information on replacement bus services can be found on www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au or www.ptv.vic.gov.au
