The pedestrian rail crossing at Grenville Street in Hampton has reopened following the completion of major safety upgrades including automatic gates and warning bells.
Member for Southern Metropolitan Region Nina Taylor today announced the crossing is back for the community to use safely after the final testing and commissioning of the new signalling system was completed over the weekend.
Following a tragic fatality at the crossing, the Andrews Labor Government listened to the local community and closed the crossing in November 2019 while investigations took place into the best upgrade for the site.
The crossing is now safer for locals to use, with train-activated warning bells and automated electronic gates to alert people to oncoming trains.
Other improvements include new electromagnetic escape gate latches, tactile ground surface indicators to assist people who are blind or visually impaired, a smoother and safer crossing surface and new lighting to ensure safety at all times of the day.
The Department of Transport undertook detailed planning to ensure the upgrade operates safely for many years to come, with existing infrastructure such as railway signals, power supply and equipment.
The crossing was upgraded as part of the Statewide Railway Crossing Program.
“This popular crossing is now much safer through the installation of automated electronic gates and warning bells to alert people to oncoming trains.”
“I thank everyone for their patience while we planned and delivered these significant upgrades.”