You've probably noticed that work on the new Metro Tunnel project – the significant underground addition to Melbourne's train network, expected to be completed by 2026 – has started in various locations around the Melbourne CBD this month. Today, Premier Daniel Andrews posted a video outlining how traffic on parts of Franklin and A'Beckett Streets will be blocked off "for many years". In a message prefacing the video showcasing an artist's vision of the construction work, Andrews say project workers will be "digging down 11 storeys" or 35 metres underground to make way for the CBD North Station, which will connect to Melbourne Central Station through the new Metro Tunnel.
The disruption to the flow of traffic will affect a stretch of Franklin Street between RMIT University and the Melbourne City Baths, while A'Beckett Street will be closed off between Swanston and Stewarts Streets, also next to RMIT. Trams will continue to run up and down Swanston while works are happening. Andrews' post also mentioned that the City of Melbourne will be working with Google Maps to update suggestions for driving routes through the city.
Other Metro Tunnel stations will be situated in Parkville, CBD South (between City Square and St Paul's Cathedral), Arden (North Melbourne), and Domain (St Kilda Rd). Check out the Metro Tunnel website for a comprehensive look at areas affected by tunnel works for the next few years.
If the road closures are getting you down these next few years, just remember: the Metro Tunnel is going to make getting across the city a whole lot more convenient. EVENTUALLY.