Over the next year, new tram zones and street features will be introduced to continue to improve the safety, accessibility and character of Swanston Street for years to come.
Where redevelopment works are currently happening?
Swanston Street road works are currently taking place in two locations:
- between Flinders Lane and Collins Street
- between Bourke and Little Bourke streets.
The new tram zones and streetscapes in these areas are due be finished in June 2012.
Construction of the final tram zone, between Franklin and A’Beckett streets will commence in the early hours of Saturday 5 May and is due to be completed in September 2012.
What redevelopment works have been completed so far?
Stage 1 of the redevelopment between Latrobe and Little Lonsdale streets was completed in November 2011. The new tram stop and surrounding streetscape demonstrates what the current works will look like when complete.
What improvements will we see in Swanston Street?
Upgraded tram zones
Over the next year, new tram zones at the State Library (completed in November 2011), RMIT, Bourke Street Mall and City Square are being upgraded to provide all abilities-access to trams. The tram zones will feature improved facilities for commuters including more shelters, seating and electronic next tram arrival information. For more information about Melbourne’s tram network, please visit the Yarra Trams website.
Improved safety measures for cycling in Swanston Street
Closure of Swanston Street to private vehicles, taxis and buses will improve safety and sightlines for cyclists. Each new tram stop will feature kerb separation and banded paving to support priority cyclist movements. Road rules will continue to apply throughout Swanston Street and cyclists must continue to obey traffic signals and give way to passengers boarding or alighting trams.
Enhanced environment
Lighting in Swanston Street will be upgraded with new purpose designed fittings which will enhance the civic character of the street whilst providing suitable levels of lighting. The street furniture in the street is to be upgraded to a stainless steel suite. Florals will be a feature throughout the street.
Will any trees on Swanston Street need to be removed?
No. All trees will stay in place. Extra trees will be planted at the Franklin Street/RMIT location.
Why are these works needed?
More and more people are coming to live, work and visit Melbourne, and Swanston Street is iconic to everyone. It’s our civic spine and it is important to evolve and maintain the street spaces for everyone to enjoy now and into the future.
How much will the project cost?
After an extensive design and research phase and on expansion of the civic brief for the street, we now estimate that the project cost will be $25.6 million.
Impacts on access to Swanston Street
Will there be any impacts to pedestrian access on footpaths and to Swanston Street shops during construction?
No. Footpaths and shop fronts will remain unrestricted at all times.
Authorised vehicles – access and parking
From Friday 3 February 2012 unrestricted and unconditional access to Swanston Street ceased permanently, with the exception of trams and bike riders. Visit Authorised vehicle access and parking – Swanston Street for more information or if you wish to apply for an authorised access permit to Swanston Street (between Flinders and La Trobe streets).
During construction, trams, pedestrians and bike riders will continue to have full access through Swanston Street. However, cyclists are required to dismount and walk their bikes around the construction zones, and footpaths will be narrower, shared thoroughfares. We encourage patience and consideration for everyone.
Will the Nightrider Bus still be available on Swanston Street?
From 3 February 2012 the Nightrider Bus will continue to operate Friday and Saturday nights and will be located outside St Paul’s Cathedral. This stop may be temporarily relocated during construction. For more information and timetables please visit the Metlink Melbourne website.
What are the road rules for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles in Swanston Street?
Swanston Street is and always will be street. Road safety rules still apply to everyone. To find out all information about road safety rules please visit the VicRoads website.