The West Gate Tunnel, a $10.2 billion project, is set to open this Sunday, offering a new river crossing in Melbourne and reducing traffic on the West Gate Bridge. The tunnel features nearly seven kilometers of tunnels and over nine kilometers of elevated roads, connecting Melbournes west to the central business district. The project aims to remove 67,000 vehicles, including 28,000 trucks, from local streets, creating quieter and safer neighborhoods. Motorists can save up to 20 minutes on their journey, but will pay a toll of $4.09 for a car and $6.54 for a ute or van. Weekend travel will be free in January. The project faced delays and a $3.4 billion budget blowout due to toxic soil discoveries and legal disputes. A new curfew banning trucks from Williamstown Road during specific evening and weekend hours has been implemented. Additional tolls will apply for exits into Footscray Road, Wurundjeri Way, and Dynon Road during weekday morning peak hours.

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