Missing links – Constitution Road tunnelling works

What are we doing in this area?

The upgrades in the area from Johnson Park to New Canterbury Road include:

Upgrade of Johnson Park including an upgraded path and playground
Tunnel under Constitution Road from Johnson Park into the light rail corridor
New raised path from Constitution Road tunnel along light rail and under New Canterbury Road
Removal of invasive non-native flora
Revegetation (native species and trees)
Installation of new solar smart path lights
Installation of public art in tunnel
Installation of new rest stop
Wayfinding signage

When are we doing this?

Construction of the upgrade from Johnson Park to New Canterbury Road has started in August 2023 and is anticipated to be completed in 2025. Construction of the Johnson Park upgrade will start in late 2024.

Closure of Constitution Road

In order to complete these upgrades, Constitution Road bridge was closed for six months from September 2023. Constitution Road bridge is re-opened to the public from Monday 18 March 2024.

Access through Johnson Park

In order to complete these upgrades, construction access is via Johnson Park. Traffic management is in place during construction from September 2023 to 2025.

Images

Artist impression - Johnson Park, looking south towards the tunnel under Constitution Road.

Piling works on and around Constitution Road bridge are now completed. The construction method of the tunnel under Constitution Road bridge is a top-down tunnelling method that requires specialised equipment and includes about 80 piles. The concrete has been poured for the tunnel roof, the road surface has been reinstalled, and the bridge is re-opened.

Const Rd bride open 1

Simultaneously, the excavation of the tunnel portal is underway. The first tunnel breakthrough happened on 25 March 2024. South side view:

Constitution Road tunnel breakthrough south side

North side view (18 June 2024):

Constitution Road tunnel north side 18 June 2024

Construction in the Constitution Road area is moving from the bridge only, to the area along the light rail line between Constitution Road and New Canterbury Road: