Government cash makes crossing safer

A LEVEL crossing in Springvale will be safer thanks to an $800,000 upgrade, the State Government says.
Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky said the State Government had completed an $800,000 upgrade to the Queens Avenue level crossing to improve the safety of pedestrians crossing the train line.
“This pedestrian crossing previously had a crib arrangement with signage, without active gates or audible warning,” Ms Kosky said.
“It now features active pedestrian gates triggered by the approach of a train, audible warning and improved pavement surfaces, signage and fencing.
“Tactile markers have also been installed to assist people with vision impairment.
“In the last two financial years, the Brumby Government has upgraded 153 level crossings and we are on track to upgrade 46 crossings this financial year.”
Clayton MP Hong Lim, MP said the upgrade would improve safety and disability access across the rail line.
“The upgraded works will directly benefit the local community centre and nearby places of worship, with extensive fencing installed to encourage pedestrians to only cross at the improved crossing,” Mr Lim said.
“The works were a major undertaking as they spanned four tracks and required major alterations to the existing signalling system.
“The upgrade of the Queens Avenue pedestrian crossing is an example of the Brumby Government’s commitment to improve level crossing safety.”
Ms Kosky said the Brumby Government was boosting safety measures at hundreds of level crossings across the state but drivers and pedestrians also have to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others and ensure they use crossings appropriately and obey warning signals.
“I want to remind all Victorians to take care at all level crossings, regardless of their safety features. Dozens of trains pass through this particular crossing each day and my message to pedestrians is just Don’t Risk It!” she said.