The Allan Labor Government is partnering with the City of Melbourne to keep traffic moving and improve local neighbourhoods when the West Gate Tunnel opens later this year.
The jointly funded $100 million Transport Amenity Program is one of the largest streetscape upgrades in Melbourne's history and will improve traffic flow and public spaces, while managing the anticipated changes to traffic when the West Gate Tunnel Project opens.
Works will begin in September at intersections around Spencer, Dryburgh, Abbotsford, Victoria, Curzon, Rosslyn, Adderley, Lothian and Ireland streets in North and West Melbourne to improve traffic flow and discourage drivers from using local streets as shortcuts.
These works will include new line markings, adjusted traffic signals, restricted turns, road closures and safety bollards - to better manage traffic volumes and make it easier for people to get around.
The new Wurundjeri Way extension being built as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project will also give people from the west a new way to get into and around the CBD, bypassing Spencer and King streets.
Importantly, the Labor Government and the City of Melbourne have agreed that traffic movements will be monitored for six months after the tunnel opens. Community feedback on the interim measures will also be sought to determine what long-term arrangements are required and what adjustments can be made to help manage traffic.
Longer-term projects, such as progressing the Hawke Street Linear Park and enhancing pedestrian and cycling connectivity, will begin next year once people adjust to the new conditions and travel patterns settle.
To date, more than $46 million of joint TAP funding has been allocated to projects including tram improvement works on William Street and pop up cycle lanes in La Trobe, Little Collins, Abbotsford and Peel streets.
This also includes a $16 million investment to deliver shared user paths and major streetscape upgrades on Dynon Road and Franklin Street - making it safer for cyclists and pedestrians travelling between North Melbourne and Footscray and further development of the Spencer Street Master Plan.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams
"The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne, delivering a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge and better connecting Melbourne's freeway network."
As stated by Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
"As we prepare to open the West Gate Tunnel later this year, we are investing across North and West Melbourne to improve traffic flow and keep people moving."
As stated by City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece
"The West Gate Tunnel Project will change how people move around Melbourne - and we're working to secure the best outcomes for our local community."
"We're working closely with the Victorian Government to deliver on what was promised - reducing through-traffic in North and West Melbourne, improving open spaces and creating more welcoming local streetscapes."
