Duplication of rail line to Baxter a step closer thanks to $4m study into the work
PLANS for the electrification and duplication of the rail line to Baxter are a step closer with news a study into the work will go ahead.
South East
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PLANS for the electrification and duplication of the rail line to Baxter are a step closer with news a study into the work will go ahead.
Federal Urban Infrastructure Minister Paul Fletcher said the $4 million study would develop a business case for the works as well as examine costs and options.
The business case will cost and plan extending the rail to a new Frankston Hospital station, Leawarra station at Monash University’s peninsula campus, a new Langwarrin station and Baxter station.
It will also look at park and ride options and new stabling yards at or near Baxter.
Mr Fletcher made the announcement at Baxter Train Station last week accompanied by Dunkley federal MP Chris Crewther, Frankston mayor Brian Cunial and Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Bev Colomb.
Mr Crewther said the business case will go out for tender later this year.
“Once costed, this opens the way for the State and Federal Governments to fully fund building the rail project,” he said.
Cr Cunial said the project would have massive benefits including the creation of more than 4000 jobs and freeing up land in central Frankston for employment uses.
“The electrification to Baxter would build connectivity between businesses, education institutions and health facilities,” he said.