The Route 58 tram has made its first journey along Toorak Road West, as the Andrews Labor Government keeps commuters moving during construction of the Metro Tunnel.
The new route means trams can continue to run between South Yarra and the CBD while the new station at Domain is being built.
Acting Minister for Public Transport John Eren inspected the two new tram stops and four kilometres of rail built during a successful school holiday construction blitz.
The new 66-metre St Kilda Road stop, near the corner of Toorak Road, has three safer, accessible platforms long enough for two trams.
The new 33-metre Easy Access Stop on Toorak Road West near Millswyn Street will improve access for all passengers by removing the step up onto low floor trams, while maintaining a dedicated traffic lane in each direction for general traffic and cyclists.
From today, Domain Road will close for around five years between St Kilda Road and the western end of Edmund Herring Oval so the new underground station can be built.
Over the last two weeks, St Kilda Road has been reduced to one lane in each direction with buses replacing trams between the Shrine of Remembrance and High Street.
Delays for motorists and tram users during the 16 day construction blitz were less than expected, and Bluetooth technology helped to manage traffic flows by providing real-time information on sign boards across the CBD .
In addition, five new CCTV cameras gave VicRoads full coverage of the works and key intersections, ensuring any incidents would be responded to quickly.
Motorists and tram users listened to the advice, planned ahead and took alternative routes on their journey, which kept delays to a minimum for other travellers.
Although tram works are complete, works continue on the Swan Street Bridge, the City Link Tulla Widening Project, the Monash Freeway upgrade, and the Hurstbridge and Cranbourne/ Pakenham lines.
Plan your journey at vicroads.vic.gov.au or ptv.vic.gov.au
Quotes attribute to Acting Minster for Public Transport John Eren
“We’re building the trains, trams and roads Victorians need to get home safer and sooner.”
“These works were less disruptive than expected, and I thank passengers, motorists and everyone for their patience while we build a better transport system.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020