Passengers begin using Moonee Ponds Junction accessible bus and tram interchange

Tuesday 2 February 2016

Public transport users in Melbourne's north-west are benefiting from improved safety, comfort, accessibility and mode connectivity with the opening of the Moonee Ponds Junction tram and bus interchange.

Yarra Trams is proud to deliver this $6.7 million upgrade, which will accommodate this fast-growing area.

The project included the renewal of more than 800 metres of track on Pascoe Vale Road between the junction and Wilson Street and more than one kilometre of overhead tram power wires, boosting the resilience and reliability of the tram network.

"This project will provide a seamless link to connect people to education, jobs and leisure activities," State Member for Essendon, Danny Pearson MP said.

"This is just one of the projects the government are funding which will improve safety, accessibility and comfort for public transport users. It's great to see it here for the Moonee Ponds community." 

Passengers will now travel into the heart of the junction and be able to seamlessly transfer between Route 59 or 82 trams and 12 different bus routes, improving the ability of public transport to connect people with education, jobs and leisure activities.

It is Melbourne's second accessible tram / bus interchange, joining Queensbridge Street in Southbank, which was built in May 2015.

"This project will help to improve social connectedness to the local community. It's now safer, more comfortable, and more accessible to interchange at Moonee Ponds Junction," Yarra Trams Director, Rolling Stock, Chris Stinchcombe said.

"Improving connectivity between trams and buses at Moonee Ponds is an important part of our plan to have an integrated network that meets the needs of all our passengers," Acting PTV CEO, Jeroen Weimar said.

"This project is part of a 10-year plan to introduce more low-floor trams to meet the future needs of Victoria." 

The upgraded interchange provides improved safety and comfort for passengers, with shelters, seating, lighting and real-time tram arrival displays.

Victoria Street, Richmond will be the next location to have raised tram stops installed to provide the community with easier access to trams.

Image credit: Steven Quy