A one-stop Info Hub for locals to learn more about the Skye/Overton Road level crossing removal project and career opportunities in the construction industry has today opened in Frankston.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan joined Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke and Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny to meet workers and officially open the facility at the corner of Skye Road and Farrell Street in Frankston.
Residents can drop in to learn more about the project which will finally remove one of Frankston’s most dangerous and congested crossings for good.
The brand new hub was built by TRY Build, a social enterprise helping young people facing barriers to education or employment learn new skills and get a job. The students used skills in cabinet making, framing, sanding, varnishing, wall lining, and metal work to create the hub.
The boom gates are down at the Skye/Overton Road level crossing for 34 minutes in the two-hour morning peak, frustrating the 10,000 drivers that rely on the road each day. Work has begun to remove this dangerous crossing, with construction to be complete by mid-2018.
In just two years, the Labor Government has removed ten dangerous and congested level crossings, rebuilt eight stations, and started construction on a further 16 crossing removals.
On the Frankston line alone, the Government is removing a massive 13 crossings, with three already gone. This work has created 2000 local jobs, and will mean commuters can get home safer and sooner.
Further transport improvements are planned to benefit Frankston, with cars and buses to return to Young Street next Tuesday, 31 October, after a major upgrade between Wells and Beach streets.
Residents can also look forward to a new Frankston Station, with the Level Crossing Removal Authority to oversee the project as part of the Government’s $63 million Frankston Station Precinct Redevelopment.
For more information about the Skye/Overton Road level crossing removal project visit the Info Hub or sign up for updates at levelcrossings.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“The Info Hub will provide a one stop shop to help locals find out more about this massive project and connect with experts to learn about job opportunities.”
“This project is not only about removing yet another dangerous and congested level crossing, but will also allow us to run more trains, more often along the Frankston line.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke
“We’re not wasting a minute getting on with removing dangerous level crossings, building a brand new Frankston Station and upgrading Young Street – projects that will benefit our community for decades to come.”
Quote attributable to Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny
“It’s been an amazing effort by TRY Build, constructing this fantastic hub and giving local young people real-life, on-the-job training to build their skills and confidence.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020