New milestone marked on VIC Keon Parade level crossing removal project
The Keon Parade level crossing removal project in Victoria has reached a new milestone prior to construction with the release of final designs.
The $277 million contract to deliver the project was also signed in October and has been awarded to an alliance comprised of John Holland Group, Kellogg Brown and Root (KBR), Metro Trains Melbourne and the Level Crossing Removal Project.
The level crossing at Keon Parade is going to be removed by building a 750-metre-long rail bridge over the road. The project will also deliver a brand-new Keon Park Station – which will be on the south side of Keon Parade to allow for better access to the station.
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Keon Park Station (source: Victoria's Big Build)
In addition, landscaping as well as walking and cycling paths that surround the station precinct are included in the project to rejuvenate the area.
The designs for the project have been refined following community feedback and it now include features such as a picnic recreational space that overlooks JC Donath Reserve as well as a pedestrian and cycling path from High Street through the station precinct to Johnson Street, providing access to local shops, cafes and eateries.
The new Keon Park Station is architecturally designed to feature two convenient entrances, a central elevated island platform that are accessible by lifts and stairs, two car parks north and south of Keon Parade, and extensive CCT and lighting throughout the station.
“The project will benefit more than 18,000 motorists who pass through this Mernda line level crossing each day, where the boom gates are down for more than 41 minutes during the morning peak.
“Since 2012, there have been 24 near misses and 1 crash recorded at the Keon Parade level crossing, so getting rid of the boom gates is crucial to ease congestion, improve safety and pave the way for more train services, more often,” Level Crossing Removal Project said in a statement.
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New rail bridge (source: Victoria's Big Build)
Over the coming months, the project team will establish site offices for the workforce as well as relocate underground services and continue geotechnical investigations.
Major construction works are due to commence early next year, with the Keon Parade level crossing gone for good and the new Keon Park Station completed in 2025.
Source: Victoria’s Big Build – Level Crossing Removal Project (1, 2); Roads & Infrastructure Australia
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