Work begins this weekend on a new tram terminus at Blyth Street, East Brunswick, as the Route 96 Upgrade to create Melbourne's first fully accessible tram line continues. These works are critical to the ongoing improvement of the network and will help cater for future public transport demand.

The new terminus has two tracks instead of the existing one, with a 33-metre platform that offers improved safety for passengers boarding and alighting, real-time passenger information, upgraded passenger amenities and improved access to E-Class trams.

The current tram stop, located south of Blyth Street, experiences high patronage. The stop currently functions as a safety zone stop located in the middle of a busy road and the terminus is restricted to one track generating delays to both trams and vehicles.

To improve the functionality of the area, the tram stop and terminus will be relocated north of Blyth Street and upgraded with a new level access platform and a dual-track terminus.

Timing

North of Blyth St: 11pm Friday 26 June to 5am Monday 6

July 2015

Activities include:

• construction of the new level access platform for Stop 27
• construction of a new dual track terminus

South of Blyth St: 2am Saturday 4 July to 5am Monday 6

July 2015

Activities include:

• removal of the current safety zone tram stop
• linking existing tram tracks with new tram tracks
• realigning the Nicholson Street/Blyth Street intersection

The major work will be carried out around-the-clock for the full 10 day period.

Motorists

Nicholson Street will be closed between Blyth Street and Stewart Street from 2am Saturday 27 June - 2am Saturday 4 July. The Blyth Street/ Nicholson Street intersection will remain open during this period.

From 2am Saturday 4 July - 5am Monday 6 July   Nicholson Street will be closed between Stewart Street and Victoria Street. Please refer to map for recommended detour.  

Minimising the impact on the local community

The intense construction schedule has been planned to take place during school holidays to minimise the disruption to Brunswick East Primary School and the travelling public. During the major work period businesses and residents can expect to hear construction related noise. Although works will be carried out around-the-clock, where possible we will schedule the noisier work during the day. Our workers will be mindful of keeping noise to a minimum and respecting the needs of the local community.

PTV and Yarra Trams are committed to keeping the local community informed of construction activity and progress. Residents and businesses can expect regular information about the upgrade over the next two months.

We thank you for your patience and understanding during this important upgrade work.

Tram passengers

Tram service changes will be in effect for Route 96 on the following dates:

• Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 July, from first to last tram.  

Download

the latest Route 96 Upgrade newsletter (PDF) for more

information about the work.

If you would like to know more about this upgrade, please call 1800 800 007 or email ptvprojects@ptv.vic.gov.au.