In short:
A new online tool is helping Wyndham and western suburbs drivers prepare for the upcoming opening of the West Gate Tunnel. The ‘Explore Your Journey’ planner lets users preview future routes, including the upgraded West Gate Freeway and tunnel connections, with an interactive map and videos. A public roadshow is also running in Geelong, giving locals a chance to test-drive the tunnel via simulator.
Wyndham Advertiser
Drivers in Wyndham and across Melbourne’s west are being encouraged to prepare for major changes to their daily commute, with the launch of a new online tool as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project.
The ‘Explore Your Journey’ tool allows users to visualise new travel options using the upgraded West Gate Freeway, the West Gate Tunnel, and new ramps and connections. The tool includes interactive maps and detailed explainer videos, with a freight-specific feature for truck drivers and logistics companies to be added soon.
Executive Project Director of the West Gate Tunnel Project, Peter Lellyett, said the tool aims to make it easier for people to understand how their regular routes may change.
“As we move closer to opening the West Gate Tunnel, we’re making it easier for Victorians to plan ahead for the changes being made to how they travel in the future,” he said.
“The ‘Explore Your Journey’ tool puts information at people’s fingertips, helping them understand how this vital project will transform their daily commute and deliver faster, safer trips across Melbourne.”
The tunnel, expected to open by the end of 2025, is designed to reduce congestion, take 9,000 trucks off local roads each day, and provide an alternative to the heavily used West Gate Bridge. These changes are expected to particularly benefit commuters from high-growth areas like Wyndham, where traffic pressure has steadily increased.
Transurban’s Group Executive for Delivery, Nicole Stoddart, said helping drivers understand the new layout in advance is key to a smooth transition.
“As we prepare for opening the West Gate Tunnel, we want to ensure drivers are ready and prepared to use the road safely and confidently from day one,” she said.
“This tool is a simple and effective way to help motorists understand their new route options and explore their future trips.”
To promote the new tool, the project team is running a regional roadshow at Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre in Geelong, operating from Friday 13 June to Sunday 22 June. Visitors will be able to “drive” the West Gate Tunnel via a driver simulator, offering a first-hand experience of the new connections before the road officially opens.
Motorists can access the journey planner now at: westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/drive
