Transurban and the Victorian Government have selected two contractors to deliver the multi-billion dollar West Gate Tunnel project.
John Holland has been selected to deliver the project in a 50:50 joint venture with CPB Contractors.
Major construction work is expected to start in early 2018 with the project scheduled to open to traffic in 2022.
John Holland Chief Executive Officer, Joe Barr, said the project would provide important benefits to the people of Melbourne.
“In providing an alternative route to the West Gate Bridge and direct access to the port, the project will significantly decrease traffic congestion, improve productivity, remove numerous trucks from local roads, and reduce travel times for motorists,” Mr Holland said.
The project will provide an estimated $11 billion boost to the Victorian economy, creating 6,000 new jobs, including 500 jobs for people entering the workforce, and up to 150 jobs for former auto workers.
Executive General Manager VIC, Trevor Hall, said he looked forward to working with the community to deliver this important piece of infrastructure.
“Our solution features urban design with high social and environmental value. We will work in partnership with residents and other stakeholders to ensure the project provides exceptional outcomes,” Mr Hall said.
The West Gate Tunnel project, one of Victoria’s largest ever urban road projects, will deliver a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge, provide quicker and safer journeys, and remove thousands of trucks from residential streets.
Design and construction works include:
- Widening the West Gate Freeway from eight lanes to 12 between the M80 Ring Road and Williamstown Road
- A 2.8km eastbound tunnel and four kilometre westbound tunnel under Yarraville
- A new bridge over the Maribyrnong River
- An elevated road along Footscray Road to the Port of Melbourne, CityLink and the city’s north
- Major new cycling and pedestrian paths
