The $10.2 billion West Gate Tunnel provides a new 20-kilometre southwest-to-northeast road connection for Melbourne, providing an alternative to the West Gate Bridge to improve freight transport. The project involves new and upgraded motorways, walking and cycling paths, open spaces, and recreational facilities. The project includes four kilometres of westbound and 2.8 kilometres of citybound twin tunnels under Yarraville with three lanes in each direction, widening of the West Gate Freeway from eight to 12 lanes, and a bridge over the Maribyrnong River.
The Judging Panel commended the West Gate Tunnel project for delivering a transformative upgrade to Melbourne’s road network, improving freight access to the Port of Melbourne and reducing truck movements on residential streets. The Panel also recognised the project team’s resilience in delivery, successfully navigating challenges including COVID-19, changes to tunnel spoil management and difficult construction market conditions to complete this major city-shaping project.