The Meldreth to Melbourn underpass has been transformed by murals and improved lighting thanks to community volunteers.
A survey by South Cambs District Council's Community Rail Partnership project officer identified that seven in 10 people avoided the area after dark, and that residents wanted a vibrant art space created by the community.
The 'wonderpass' has new, vibrant murals creating the feel of a giant art gallery, and containing artwork from 40 community groups, including schools, youth groups and places of worship.
The art was painted by volunteers of all ages over the Easter break, with more than 100 people helping in the first week alone.
South Cambs District Council hosted two 'meet the artist' sessions at the Warm Hub in Melbourn for people to refine their ideas for the wall - resulting in a colourful border stretching the length of the underpass and depicting plants, flowers, mushrooms and creatures.
Cllr SallyAnn Hart, ward member for Melbourn, said: "It has been an absolute joy to witness the coming together of community groups over the Easter holidays and see the underpass transformed so quickly.
"Vibrant designs have been lovingly transferred to the blank wall space and frames added. At one point, the raised painting walkway was full of enthusiastic artists!"
Fellow Melbourn ward member Jose Hales added: "A huge thank you to everyone for their input into the project including the dozens of local artists who have contributed such wonderful pieces of artwork, SDC for their continued support of the project without whom we wouldn’t have been able to do this in the first place.
"Also, local lead artist Bec Barnes, who led the actual painting of the underpass and the design. It is truly magnificent.
"The repaint has totally changed the underpass from a dark, damp, unwelcoming space, to a bright, beautifully decorated safe space."
Reflective paint has been used throughout the underpass to naturally enhance light, and there are new electric lights that come on earlier and stay on later. Vegetation outside has also been cut back to improve sight lines.
The project was funded by grants from Melbourn and Meldreth parish councils, the district council, Govia Thameslink Railway, the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Community Rail Development Fund, and SDC contractors - with support from Cambridgeshire County Council and the Meldreth, Shepreth and Foxton Community Rail Partnership.
Cllr Susan van de Ven, chair of the community rail partnership, said: "People of all ages, from babies and toddlers to grandparents, have come together to create this wonderful place in a short window of time.
"Seeing grassroots community action like this is truly heart-warming.
"Moreover, we are really pleased to make this area feel safe in response to a call from local people.
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"Months of preparation have included indispensable advice and support from SDC, who have been on site at Melbourn Science Park for the past couple of years and wanted to contribute to a lasting community project.
"The Meldreth-Melbourn underpass is a great example of partnership at work."
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