BOOM gates on Seaford Road have been removed as part of major works on the Frankston line.
The Seaford Road gates were identified as causing congestion and safety issues and were been taken down on 9 September as part of the state government’s level crossing removal project.
The crossing boom gates and associated equipment are no longer necessary due to the new road underpass being constructed.
A state government statement estimated that around 17,000 vehicles pass over the Seaford Road level crossing every day, with the removal of the boom gates being “an important step toward removing the level crossing for good”.
To complete the road underpass, 16 L-shaped concrete segments up to 31 metres long and weighing 125 tonnes each were transported to the site over several nights, then craned into place and joined together in pairs to form the U-shaped viaducts that trains will eventually run inside.
Seaford Road will be lowered by 1.5 metres, more than two kilometres of new track will be laid, and 35 kilometres of signal cabling and 25,000 tonnes of ballast will be put down.
“This level crossing has posed a danger to commuters and held up traffic along Seaford Road for far too long. The boom gates will not be missed,” said Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny.
“I thank commuters along the Frankston line for their patience while we complete these important works, which will improve the reliability of train services in the long run. Removing the Seaford Road level crossing opens the way for the $10 million revitalisation of Seaford which will improve safety, reduce congestion, and connect the community.”