The Danish Parliament has approved a bill to construct an almost two-kilometer road tunnel under Marselis Boulevard in Aarhus, according to the Ministry of Transport. Construction is slated to begin in 2028, with the tunnel expected to open in 2035.

The Marselis Tunnel aims to divert heavy traffic from the motorway to Aarhus Harbour, Denmark’s largest container port, beneath the city. This initiative promises a more direct route for traffic, a reduction in the number of vehicles passing through Aarhus, and decreased traffic noise.

Minister of Transport Thomas Danielsen (V) stated that the Marselis Tunnel will provide a good, fast connection between the port and the motorway network. He added that the people of Aarhus will experience less traffic in the city, allowing them to reclaim urban spaces. The Danish Road Directorate estimates that around 3,000 trucks and semi-trailer trucks use the route daily.

The tunnel project has been under consideration for several years. In 2021, the project was approved as part of an agreement allocating DKK 161 billion to future infrastructure projects. Local media reported in 2024 that the estimated cost of the tunnel is DKK 4.1 billion.

Jesper Kronborg, industry director at Dansk Erhverv Transport, described the project’s approval as “good news”. He believes it will significantly improve infrastructure in and around Aarhus, benefiting both residents and businesses.