Moorabool train commuters are set for faster, more frequent services in and out of Rowsley.
The newly upgraded Rowsley crossing loop will start operating this month and allow shorter travel times between existing loops at Parwan and Bank Box.
Construction of the loop is part of the state government’s $518 million investment to upgrade the Ballarat line. It duplicates a one-kilometre section of track, allowing trains to overtake one another.
The project includes critical safety improvements to Rowsley Station Road rail crossing and new warning lights and boom gates. An extra 40 carpark spaces were added at Ballan station in December 2014 as part of the project’s first stage.
Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the crossing loop would mean a more reliable service for Ballarat line passengers, enabling trains to make up time from unexpected delays. “The state government’s plan to fix the Ballarat line and deliver more frequent and reliable services is showing positive results.”
Buninyong MP Geoff Howard said completion of the loop was good news after a difficult few months.
“The Rowsley Station Road level crossing is safer for motorists now that boom gates are in place,” he said. “The service will be more reliable now that work on the loop is complete.”
