The Danish Parliament has approved the construction of a nearly two-kilometer road tunnel under Marselis Boulevard in Aarhus. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and noise in the city center by diverting heavy vehicles traveling between the E45 motorway and Aarhus Harbour, Denmark’s largest container port.

The Marselis Tunnel project has been under discussion for several years, receiving formal approval in 2021 as part of a broader infrastructure agreement allocating DKK 161 billion. The current estimated cost of the tunnel is DKK 4.1 billion. Construction is slated to begin in 2028, with an expected completion date in 2035.

Minister of Transport Thomas Danielsen emphasized the tunnel’s dual benefits, stating that it will provide a faster connection between the port and the motorway network while also reducing traffic through Aarhus, allowing residents to reclaim urban spaces.

Aarhus Mayor Anders Winnerskjold echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the tunnel will prevent the road connection to the port from becoming a hindrance to its development, while simultaneously reducing traffic noise for residents and creating new, more peaceful urban areas.

Industry organizations such as the Confederation of Danish Industry and the Danish Chamber of Commerce have also expressed their support for the project. Jesper Kronborg, Director of Industry at the Danish Chamber of Commerce Transport, noted its importance for the infrastructure around Aarhus, benefiting both citizens and businesses. Mona Hyldgaard Møller, secretariat manager for Danish shipping & port companies, part of the Confederation of Danish Industry, added that the tunnel will ensure efficient handling of the anticipated increase in truck transport volume. The Danish Road Directorate estimates that approximately 3,000 trucks and semi-trailer trucks travel on the stretch daily.