Drivers in Macleod in Melbourne’s north east could soon ditch long waits at boom gates, with plans unveiled to remove the Ruthven Street level crossing and replace it with a new rail bridge.
Early designs released this week show how the upgrade will tackle one of the area’s busiest choke points, used by around 12,600 vehicles each day. Once complete, the project is expected to significantly ease congestion and improve safety, particularly during peak periods when boom gates can dominate the morning commute.
The new rail bridge will carry trains over Ruthven Street, removing the need for traffic to stop altogether. When finished next year, it is set to eliminate almost 30 minutes of boom gate down time during the morning peak, offering a noticeable shift for locals who regularly pass through the crossing.
Beyond traffic improvements, the project also looks to reshape how people move through the area. A new walking and cycling path will run along Ellesmere Parade between Ruthven Street and Davies Street, creating a more direct and accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists. A signalised pedestrian crossing on Ruthven Street will also be added, improving access to Macleod Station and nearby streets.
Designs have been influenced by community feedback, with planners drawing inspiration from the nearby Rosanna Parklands to better integrate the structure into its surroundings. Under the rail bridge, a new landscaped space will feature native and indigenous plants, turning what is often leftover infrastructure space into something usable for the community.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with major works to follow as part of the broader push to remove level crossings across Melbourne. By 2030, a total of 110 crossings are slated for removal, with the majority already completed.
Locals can now view the designs and have their say, with information sessions and feedback opportunities available online at engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-ruthven-street.
