One side of Flinders Street will be closed to traffic for up to three years to build an underground connection from Flinders Street Station to the new Town Hall Station, as part of Metro Tunnel construction.
From 2 September, both eastbound lanes on Flinders Street will be closed between Elizabeth and Swanston streets.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said the closure would enable major work to begin on the new interchange under Swanston Street and Degraves Street.
“This is a significant closure, but we need to do it – it’s the only way to build this vital underground connection between Flinders Street and the Metro Tunnel station,” Ms. Allan said.
“We know how disruptive this major construction will be so we’re doing everything we can to minimise disruptions and impacts on local residents, businesses and people visiting the city.”
According to Ms. Allan, trams will continue to run in both directions throughout, except for six days – from 2-7 October – when major construction will be carried out close to the tram network.
“The footpath will remain open along Flinders Street past Degraves Street and to the Station construction site,” Ms. Allan said.
“A new pedestrian crossing will also be established to the west of Degraves Street to enable pedestrians to cross to the south side of Flinders Street and maintain access to the tram stop.”
Ms. Allan said pedestrian and vehicle access would be maintained for local businesses and residents, with loading bays available east of Elizabeth Street for deliveries and drop-offs.
The full footpath on Flinders Street is expected to re-open to pedestrians in late 2020.
Ms. Allan said the road network will also be monitored in real time to respond quickly to any incidents or congestion.
Additionally, traffic lights will be modified to increase capacity at key intersections.
Variable Message Signs will also be positioned at strategic locations to provide information on alternative routes.
“The eastbound closure of Flinders Street will halve the number of truck movements on Swanston Street during peak construction, reducing it to around 100 trucks each day at peak construction in late 2020 – boosting safety for pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists,” Ms. Allan said.
“The state government’s Metro Tunnel Project will create capacity for more than half a million additional passengers a week across Melbourne’s train network during peak periods.”
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