FRANKSTON line commuters face more short-term pain for long-term gain with the rail line set to be closed between Caulfield and Moorabbin stations for more than a month from the end of June.
Buses will replace trains between the stations for 37 days from 24 June until 31 July so level crossing removals at Ormond, McKinnon and Bentleigh stations can be completed.
The works to separate road from rail, described as a “massive winter construction blitz” by the Labor state government, will be finished by August.
Acting Premier James Merlino said the three level crossings will be removed by August, six months ahead of schedule.
“We’re not wasting a single day removing these three dangerous and congested level crossings that have plagued communities for more than a century. Soon these relics of the past will be gone,” Mr Merlino said.
Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the level crossings will be gone by the time train services between Caulfield and Moorabbin resume and three new train stations will also be completed.
“Removing these crossings will reduce traffic congestion, improve public transport and make these communities safer. There will be disruption while these works occur, but it will be worth it.”
Trains on the Stony Point line will also be unable to access Southern Cross station for maintenance while the line is partially closed so buses will also replace trains on the Stony point line from 25 June to 31 July.
Weekend closures will also take place on 14-15 May and 4-5 June between Caulfield and Mordialloc.