Vic: Expressway tunnel passes peak hour test with flying colours

AAP General News (Australia)
04-17-2000
Vic: Expressway tunnel passes peak hour test with flying colours

The operators of the first of two tunnels on Melbourne's new expressway system say
it's passed the major test of the morning rush hour with flying colours.

Transurban says the police reported no traffic problems and exhaust fumes were minimal,
as at least 2,500 cars an hour passed through the tunnel.

That number was slightly fewer than normal due the the school holidays and a rostered
day off in the building industry.

The 1.6 kilometre Domain tunnel, which was formally opened by the Premier STEVE BRACKS
at the weekend, is part of the $2 billion City Link project and connects the Monash Freeway,
south-east of the city, to the westbound Westgate Freeway.

Transurban says congestion on two major city-bound roads from the Monash Freeway had
eased this morning as heavy trucks took the tunnel route.

The operators will remove roadworks and open three more exits into the inner city area
over the coming weeks.

The outbound Burnley tunnel is still yet to open, as it has been plagued by construction
problems, including cracks and leaks.

AAP RTV nl/er/amt/jn

KEYWORD: TUNNEL (MELBOURNE)

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