Melbourne’s transformative West Gate Tunnel Project has reached a striking new milestone, with three towering timber net structures now completed to mark the entry and exit points of the twin tunnels.
Standing 38 metres tall, these visually striking portals inspired by the area’s maritime history and Aboriginal heritage signal the project’s rapid progress toward its scheduled opening later this year.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Acting Transport Infrastructure Minister Ben Carroll inspected the Footscray portal today, highlighting how the tunnel will slash travel times by up to 20 minutes while removing 9,000 trucks daily from local roads.
The laminated timber structures were chosen for their sustainability and durability, with feature lighting to guide drivers at night.
With 60% of tunnel safety systems installed and final road surfacing soon to begin, the project is entering its final stages. Nearby, new wetlands and cycling paths are taking shape, creating greener connections between the city and Melbourne’s west.
“From above or below ground, the West Gate Tunnel Project is taking shape as it races towards completion later this year,” said Premier Allan.
Once open, the West Gate Tunnel will provide a vital second river crossing, easing congestion and transforming travel for western suburbs commuters.
