State government launches $100 million Transport Amenity Program to manage West Gate Tunnel traffic changes.
Works are set to begin across Melbourne’s inner suburbs as the Victorian government prepares for major traffic shifts when the West Gate Tunnel opens later this year. The $100 million Transport Amenity Program represents one of the largest streetscape upgrades in Melbourne’s history.
Partnership between the Victorian government and City of Melbourne aims to keep traffic flowing smoothly while improving local neighbourhoods. The Transport Amenity Program will tackle anticipated changes to traffic patterns once the West Gate Tunnel Project becomes operational.
Starting this month (September), intersections around Spencer, Dryburgh, Abbotsford, Victoria, Curzon, Rosslyn, Adderley, Lothian and Ireland streets in North and West Melbourne will undergo significant improvements. These upgrades focus on improving traffic flow and preventing drivers from using residential streets as shortcuts through the inner city.
West gate Tunnel Transport Amenity Program
- New line markings and adjusted traffic signals
- Restricted turns and selective road closures
- Safety bollards installation
- Enhanced traffic management systems
- Improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure
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As part of the West Gate Tunnel project, new Wurundjeri Way extension will provide western suburbs residents with an alternative route into the CBD, reducing pressure on Spencer and King streets. This additional connection forms a key part of managing increased traffic volumes through Melbourne’s inner areas.
Traffic monitoring will continue for six months after the tunnel opens, with community feedback helping shape long-term arrangements. Adjustments can be made based on real-world traffic patterns and resident input during this transition period.
Longer-term projects including the Hawke Street Linear Park and enhanced pedestrian connectivity will commence next year. These developments wait for travel patterns to settle and people to adjust to new traffic conditions across the network.
More than $46 million in joint funding has already been allocated to various projects. William Street tram improvements and pop-up cycle lanes in La Trobe, Little Collins, Abbotsford and Peel streets represent significant investments in public transport and active transport infrastructure.
A $16 million investment will deliver shared user paths and major streetscape upgrades on Dynon Road and Franklin Street. These improvements enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians travelling between North Melbourne and Footscray while supporting further development of the Spencer Street Master Plan.
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