The City of Melbourne has officially completed major streetscape works on Elizabeth Street, transforming one of the city's busiest pedestrian thoroughfares.
Works to revitalise Elizabeth Street between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane finished yesterday with the unveiling of an expanded footpath, new trees and street furniture.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the project has transformed Elizabeth Street south and created more space for commuters using Flinders St Station.
"This project has delivered significant improvements for one of the busiest parts of our city - making it easier for people to move, shop, eat and meet.
"We've added more than 400 square metres of space to accommodate pedestrians accessing multiple transport modes including trains and trams to make this one of the safest entry points to the city.
"Before COVID-19, up to 10,000 people would cross at the Flinders Street and Elizabeth Street intersection every hour during the morning peak. As we re-open the city, they will now enjoy a safer, cleaner and more inviting space as they travel along Elizabeth Street."
"This has been a long and at times frustrating project and I want to thank residents, shoppers, workers, visitors and most importantly local businesses for their patience while these works were delivered," the Lord Mayor said.
"The new open space we've delivered will entice more people to the area and keep them there for longer, helping to support local businesses and bring the buzz back to Melbourne.
"More open space means happier pedestrians and creates a more welcoming and safer environment for visitors."
The Elizabeth Street south streetscape works created more than ten jobs and also provided an opportunity to repair and reinforce the 120-year-old red brick Melbourne Water drain located beneath the roadway.
Works on Elizabeth Street were delayed in 2021 due to COVID-19 lockdowns and receiving final approval from authorities.
