The western suburb’s biggest infrastructure project is a step closer to completion, with Premier Jacinta Allan and Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson becoming the first people to drive through the West Gate Tunnel.
On Monday, December 2, the pair drove the entire length of the four-kilometre outbound tunnel which goes underneath the Maribyrnong River, linking Footscray Road to the West Gate Freeway.
The trip coincided with the completion of 31 cross passages linking the twin tunnels, which are designed to improve motorist safety and provide evacuation routes in the event of an emergency.
Situated at 120 metre intervals, it’s also hoped the cross passages will help construction workers finish the overall project earlier.
“The West Gate Tunnel will slash travel times and change the way people get to and from the west,” she said.
Mr Pearson said by providing a second river crossing, the tunnel would benefit the entire western suburbs.
“We’re delivering this city-shaping project next year and taking 9,000 trucks off local roads in the west.”
More than 10,000 architectural panels are currently being installed on the walls of the tunnels, with crews set to add lights, traffic management systems and asphalt in the new year.
Cade Lucas
