A dangerous level crossing at Campbellfield will be eradicated as moves start on its removal.
The Camp Road crossing is included in a state government list of 50 dangerous and congested level crossings it plans to remove by 2022.
The crossing has been the site of three accidents and 15 near misses in the past decade.
Last week, the Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA), which is overseeing the project, said the crossing would be removed by lowering the rail line into a trench under Camp Road.
A number of other options were investigated but ruled out as they would have required major re-routing of Camp Road, significant realignment of Sydney Road or major alterations to the Western Ring Road.
The project is expected to be finished in 2019.
Project director Michael Caink said the decision allows for the possibility of the rail track being duplicated in the future.
He said the project would improve traffic flow in the area, however there would be some disruption to motorists during construction. Camp Road carries 20,000 vehicles a day.
“We’re removing the dangerous and congested level crossing on Camp Road to ease local traffic congestion and make Campbellfield safer,” Mr Caink said.
“We will work closely with local residents, businesses and passengers throughout construction to minimise the impact of this critical project.
“I encourage people to jump online or pop into one of the upcoming information sessions and find out more.”
LXRA is yet to announce the cost of the project.
Last year, the authority announced that two consortium – John Holland and KBR, and CPB Constructions and Aurecon Australasia – had been shortlisted to remove the crossing.
Residents can find out more about plans and the works schedule at a community information session at The Meadows on Saturday from 10am-noon.
Details: levelcrossings.vic.gov.au
