The West Gate Tunnel Project is now open, delivering a city-shaping transport solution for Melbourne.
The project provides a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge and is expected to improve freight access to the Port of Melbourne and enhance liveability for communities across the West.
The West Gate Tunnel project includes:
- 6.8 kilometres of new tunnel between the West Gate Freeway and the Maribyrnong River
- two additional lanes in each direction on the West Gate Freeway between the M80 Ring Road and Williamstown Road
- ramps between the West Gate Freeway and Hyde Street for trucks carrying dangerous goods
- a new bridge over the Maribyrnong River joining an elevated freeway above Footscray Road with connections to the Port of Melbourne, CityLink and city north
- major new cycling and walking paths and open space.
Direct connections to the Port of Melbourne are expected to streamline freight movements and support Victoria’s economic growth. The project is also anticipated to remove more than 9,000 trucks per day from residential streets, which is expected to improve liveability, safety and reduce noise and emissions for local communities.
The West Gate Tunnel will provide greater flexibility for customers with time-of-day pricing for certain trips while also simplifying travel with a single, capped toll for Heavy and Long Heavy Commercial vehicles across both CityLink and the West Gate Tunnel. Additionally, freight operators are able to access multi trip and night time discounts for heavy vehicles, which is expected to reduce congestion during peak travel periods.
Find more information about tolls and the West Gate Tunnel.
The project will also deliver over 14 kilometres of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths, including the newly-opened 2.5-kilometre elevated veloway above Footscray Road, creating safer and more sustainable travel options. In addition, more than nine hectares of new parks and wetlands will be created, providing green spaces for recreation and environmental renewal.
Transurban CEO Michelle Jablko said:
“The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform how people and goods move around Melbourne. By providing faster, safer and more reliable journeys, removing thousands of trucks from local streets, and delivering new and upgraded cycling and walking paths, this project delivers significant benefits for motorists, freight operators and communities alike.”
“A project of this scale is only possible thanks to the dedication of our government, community and construction partners, including the incredible efforts of more than 6,000 people – engineers, construction workers, road technology specialists, and many others. On behalf of Transurban, I also extend our sincere thanks to the local community for your patience and support throughout construction.”
