After a protracted wait, Melbourne’s West Gate Tunnel has officially opened, promising significant improvements for the city’s commuters and local neighborhoods. This long-anticipated development aims to divert heavy truck traffic from residential streets and reduce morning commute times.

With a staggering investment of $10.2 billion, the tunnel project seeks to alleviate the notorious traffic congestion plaguing Melbourne’s western suburbs. It offers a much-needed alternative route to the heavily burdened West Gate Bridge, providing a more efficient pathway into the city.

The inaugural journey through the tunnel took place in the early morning, marked by a parade of Transurban vehicles traversing the new route, symbolizing the dawn of a new era in Melbourne’s transportation landscape.

As a toll road, the West Gate Tunnel charges approximately $4 for a one-way trip in a car, while trucks face fees of up to $20 for a round trip. Despite the costs, the potential time savings are substantial, with travel times from the western suburbs to Melbourne expected to decrease by 15 to 20 minutes for those who opt to use the tunnel.

Travel time from the western suburbs into Melbourne could be slashed by 15-20 minutes if commuters use the tunnel.

Government figures also claim about 9000 trucks will be taken off suburban roads due to the tunnel’s opening, helping communities such as Williamstown and Yarraville.

“The West Gate Tunnel gives people real choice – the bridge or the tunnel – saving families time and reshaping travel across the west,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.

The tunnel was initially proposed by the previous Premier Daniel Andrews, with a proposed opening date of 2022.

However, it was hit with numerous delays, including the presence of toxic PFAS chemicals in the ground, which had to be dug up and disposed of safely.

The project is another major transport change in Melbourne, with the West Gate Tunnel opening to drivers just weeks after the opening of the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, a significant upgrade to the city’s rail network.