Major upgrades to two busy tram stops in Melbourne's William Street next month will also result in better bike facilities on several blocks of the commuter route.
For over a decade, William Street has been designated as one of the key north-south bike routes through the central city, despite it's hop-scotch bike lane lay out.
With two new Route 58 tram stops between Bourke and La Trobe Streets, Yarra Trams and the City of Melbourne have taken the opportunity to insert several sections of separated bike lane—a major improvement.
Stops 5 and 7 will be rebuilt as raised platform, accessible tram stops, clearing the way for the bike lane changes. Important logistics parking will be moved to nearby locations.
The platforms will feature new shelters, seating, improved lighting, and passenger information displays.
They will also enhance safety by separating passengers from traffic and trams through more pedestrian crossing points, and new collision barriers and fencing.
This means no more tram passengers dangerously sprinting across the bike lane to get to Flagstaff Station entrance.
Stop 6 will be removed as Stops 5 and 7 are moved closer together.
At the same time, Yarra Trams will be renewing the tram tracks and overhead wires along William Street.
Major works are planned for a two week period from 23 November until 9 December, resulting in temporary closure temporary closure of William Street and nearby streets.
William St will face closure between Flinders Lane and Dudley Street as more than two kilometres of tram track and overhead wires are be replaced.
Flinders Lane, Little Collins Street, Little Bourke Street, and Little Lonsdale Street will all be closed for the duration of the works.
Little Collins Street will be open either side of the William Street intersection, and local traffic management staff will be on hand to help.
Footpaths along William Street will be open to pedestrians for the duration of the works, with temporary fences along the kerb.
Stay tuned for more information on closures and detours.
Some preliminary works will occur along William Street from 13 October to 22 November in the lead-up to the main construction in November.
This includes work to confirm the location of underground utilities, such as electricity, water and gas supply lines under the road. There may be temporary bike lane closures while poles are installed at night.
Please follow signage and traffic management around the work zone.
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