“Did you know that Link Road is actually part of CityLink?” This 22-kilometer stretch of road plays a vital role in Melbourne’s transport network.
Link Road is not just any road. It’s a key component of CityLink. CityLink connects Melbourne’s Monash, West Gate, and Tullamarine freeways. It also connects the city center with Melbourne’s major airport and port. This makes Link Road a crucial artery for both local and international travelers.
Most of Link Road features eight lanes. There are four inbound and four outbound lanes. The Bolte Bridge and the Burnley and Domain tunnels are also part of CityLink. Think of Link Road as the connecting thread that ties these significant landmarks together.
CityLink opened in two stages. The Western Link opened in August 1999. The Southern Link opened in December 2000. Since then, there have been upgrades to both the Western and Southern links. The Burnley Tunnel was upgraded in 2023 with state-of-the-art pacemaker lighting. This innovative lighting is designed to help drivers maintain a consistent speed in the tunnel.
Transurban owns 100% of CityLink. They have had the concession to operate it since it was built. They will continue to operate it until 2045.
Navigating Link Road requires a bit of planning. To pay for your travel on CityLink, you have a few options. You can open a Postpaid account or a Prepaid account. You can also buy a pass for occasional use.
The West Gate Tunnel will be a 17-kilometer road. It will connect Melbourne’s west with the central city. Once completed, it promises to reduce peak travel time by up to 20 minutes. It will also take thousands of vehicles off the West Gate Bridge.
The West Gate Tunnel project includes 6.8 kilometers of new tunnel. It also adds two additional lanes in each direction on the West Gate Freeway. There will be new cycling and walking paths. It will provide close to nine hectares of open space.
Think about the scale of the project. The construction of CityLink, including Link Road, was a massive undertaking. It dramatically improved Melbourne’s road network. It connects major freeways and reduces congestion.
Link Road is more than just asphalt and lanes. It’s a testament to Melbourne’s growth and its commitment to efficient transportation. As you travel along Link Road, remember its history and its role in connecting this vibrant city.