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politics1d ago
From toxic soil and industrial standoffs, Melbourne’s West Gate Tunnel finally emerges for motorists to use on Sunday
- The West Gate Tunnel will open to motorists on Sunday, delivering a new river crossing for Melbourne.
- The $10.2 billion project includes 6.8 km of tunnels and 9.2 km of elevated roads.
- A 2.5-kilometer veloway and 14 kilometers of new walking and cycling links are part of the package.
- Toll rates apply to new sections, with a car charged around $4.09 and a ute around $6.54.
- A 24-hour truck ban on local streets will take effect when the tunnel opens.
- The project is a joint venture between the government and Transurban, with cost overruns and delays cited in its history.
- Traffic tolls are part of the new network but motorists have options, including the existing bridge.
- The government pledged free public transport on weekends in January to coincide with the Metro Tunnel opening.
- Officials expect the project to reduce truck traffic on inner-west streets.
- Authorities expect the opening to shape infrastructure politics ahead of the 2026 state election.
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