The Great Melbourne Level Crossing Escape: How Many Are Left?
Ah, the level crossing. The bane of every Melbournian's commute. You're cruising down the road, music pumping, frappe in hand, then BAM! The red lights flash, the bells blare, and your chill vibe evaporates faster than a snowflake in the Outback.
But fear not, fellow Melburnians! There's light at the end of the tunnel (or under the bridge, as the case may be). The level crossing removal project is in full swing, and those pesky intersections are disappearing faster than a free snag at a sausage sizzle.
So, the burning question is: how many of these traffic-stopping terrors are left? Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the delightful world of level crossing statistics (cue dramatic music).
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| How Many Level Crossings Are Left In Melbourne |
By the Numbers: The Dwindling Dingers
Here's the deal: Melbourne used to be positively lousy with level crossings. Back in the day (like, 2014-ish) there were a whopping 178 of these traffic bottlenecks. That's more level crossings than your average game of Frogger!
QuickTip: Scan the start and end of paragraphs.
But thanks to the tireless efforts of our hardworking infrastructure wranglers (and a hefty budget, no doubt), the number has been steadily shrinking. As of June 2024, a good 80 level crossings have been consigned to the history books.
That's a cause for celebration, folks! We're talking smoother commutes, less honking (hopefully!), and a whole lot more predictability in your travel time.
The Finish Line is in Sight (But Maybe Not Quite Yet)
So, how many are we left with? Here's the exciting part: The goal is to have only 66 level crossings remaining by 2030. That's a dramatic reduction, folks! We're talking about a level crossing-free future, a utopia where traffic flows freely and commutes are a breeze.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
But hold on there, sunshine! There's still some work to be done. Those final 66 crossings are like the cockroaches of Melbourne's infrastructure - determined to stick around. We can expect some construction disruptions and detours along the way. But hey, a little temporary pain for a lifetime of smooth sailing, right?
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Level Crossing Trivia: You Heard It Here First!
While we're on the topic, here's a little bonus trivia for you level crossing aficionados:
- The first level crossing removal in Melbourne? That honour goes to Dorset Road in Boronia, all the way back in 1998!
- And the most level crossing-heavy line? The Cranbourne Line used to be a real contender, but thanks to the project, it's now the first line to be completely level crossing-free!
Frequently Asked Level Crossing Questions
Alright, alright, we know you've got questions. Here's a quick FAQ to answer your burning level crossing queries:
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1. How to dodge a level crossing altogether?
Easy! Invest in a bicycle or a good pair of running shoes. Problem solved (and you'll get some exercise too!).
2. How to deal with a level crossing delay?
Embrace it! Use the time to catch up on podcasts, practise your breathing exercises, or write a scathing email to your boss in your head (but definitely don't send it!).
3. How to find out if there are any upcoming level crossing closures?
The wise folks at Victoria's Big Build website have all the info you need: https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/library/level-crossing-removal-project/frankston/ecb/ees/ees-construction
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
4. How to complain about a particularly long level crossing delay?
We feel your pain. But maybe channel that energy into writing a strongly worded haiku about the experience. It'll be more cathartic.
5. How to celebrate the eventual demise of all level crossings?
Street party! Seriously, Melbourne, let's throw a massive shindig when the last crossing is gone.
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