Franklin Street has reopened to traffic, pedestrians and cyclists after more than 7 years of Metro Tunnel works to build the new State Library Station.
It was the first road to shut at the beginning of Metro Tunnel construction. Now, it’s home to a brand-new entrance to State Library Station, between RMIT and Melbourne City Baths.
Franklin Street has been redesigned as a pedestrian promenade with boulevard-style tree plantings lining the street. A footpath on the southern side has been widened into a linear park, with areas for outdoor dining, shade, gardens and public art.
Other upgrades include new station service buildings and changes to traffic and parking.
Key features include:
- Separated bike lanes in both directions between Elizabeth and Victoria streets, with a raised kerb for safer cycling.
- Wider footpaths, new lighting, seating, and landscaping.
- One traffic lane in each direction between Elizabeth and Victoria streets, with on-street kerbside parking.
Franklin Street’s new entrance to State Library Station is fully accessible, with lifts and escalators taking passengers to the concourse and platforms. From there, you’ll be able to catch services on the Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines once the Metro Tunnel opens later this year.
The station also connects to Melbourne Central via a shared concourse, making it easy to change to City Loop services.
