Franklin Street, Melbourne has reopened after more than seven years of Metro Tunnel construction for State Library Station.
Franklin Street was the first road to close when Metro Tunnel construction began. Now it features a brand-new entrance to State Library Station, positioned between RMIT and Melbourne City Baths.
Franklin Street has undergone a complete transformation during its closure. The Victorian government has redesigned it as a pedestrian promenade with boulevard-style tree plantings lining the entire street. A footpath on the southern side has been widened into a linear park, creating spaces for outdoor dining, shade areas, gardens and public art installations.
Metro Tunnel works – Franklin Street, Melbourne reopens
- Separated bike lanes run in both directions between Elizabeth and Victoria streets
- One traffic lane operates in each direction between Elizabeth and Victoria streets
- On-street kerbside parking remains available
- New station service buildings have been constructed
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The new entrance to State Library Station offers full accessibility features. Lifts and escalators transport passengers to the concourse and platforms below.
Once the Metro Tunnel opens later this year, travellers will access services on the Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines from this location.
State Library Station connects directly to Melbourne Central through a shared concourse. This connection makes changing to City Loop services straightforward for passengers.
The street’s reopening marks a significant milestone in the Metro Tunnel project. After seven years of disruption, Franklin Street now serves as both a transport hub and an enhanced public space for the city.
The separated bike lanes represent a significant improvement for cyclists navigating this part of the city. The raised kerbs provide physical separation from vehicle traffic, addressing long-standing safety concerns in the area.
State Library Station’s opening will integrate seamlessly with Melbourne’s existing public transport network. The connection to Melbourne Central ensures passengers can easily access the broader rail system without navigating street-level transfers.
The Metro Tunnel project continues to progress towards its completion later this year.
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