The Victorian Government is celebrating a milestone after the completion of an upgrade on one of the most dangerous level crossings in the state.
As part of its $47 million Fix Country Crossings Program, the upgrade to the Avenel crossing on Aerodrome Road was the 50th project finished.
The upgrade involved the installation of boom barriers and flashing lights. The crossing previously had only safety signage.
Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder said the government’s program had delivered similar safety upgrades throughout the state.
“We now have up to 50 level crossings completed. A further ten will be completed this year, taking the total to 60. Next year works will be carried out to achieve the total of 75 over the four year program,” Mulder said.
“As well as a safety boost across country Victoria, the program has been an economic boon for regional Victoria.
“The program relies on a skilled workforce with each level crossing upgrade requiring many skilled hands to deliver the safety boost and improved protection.”
Mulder said the program had delivered safer crossings from Bendigo to Swan Hill and Echuca, Seymour to Shepparton, Geelong to Warrnambool and Traralgon to Bairnsdale.