Portland’s popular tourist tram is now safer thanks to a $30,000 upgrade at the Bentinck Street crossing.
New warning lights have been installed that can be activated from the tram, to warn motorist when the tram is entering the crossing.
The new signals replace an outmoded manual warning system, which involved a red flag being raised to stop traffic at the intersection.
In a Victorian first, the lights are solar powered making them more sustainable and less expensive, which is important as the cost of traditional signal devices is often prohibitive for volunteer tourist and heritage railways organisations.
Additional line marking works were also carried out along Bentinck Street to further raise the visual profile of the crossing.
The $30,000 project was funded through the Victorian Government’s Transport Investing in Regions initiative, which aims to deliver innovative solutions to local transport problems.
For more information about the Transport Investing in Regions Initiative please visit http://economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au/transport/rail-and-roads/transport-investing-in-regions
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“Our tourist tram is an icon of Portland, critical to the local economy and I am so pleased it will be made safer for the thousands of visitors who catch it every year.”
“This $30,000 upgrade includes new warning lights and line markings to better warn motorists when the tram is entering the crossing, reducing the risk of accidents.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in major transport projects across Victoria to improve safety and services for all Victorians.”
