Work on the next extension of the West Midlands Metro tram network is set to start within weeks following confirmation of government funding.
Preparations are already under way for construction of the £295 million second phase of the Black Country section.
It will run from Flood Street in Dudley town centre and have five new stops at Cinder Bank, Pedmore Road, Waterfront Business Park, the Merry Hill centre and Brierley Hill.
The first phase, between Wednesbury and Dudley town centre, is due to open to passengers later this year.
Transport for West Midlands said the Government's support for the new route, which included approval of the final funding in the Budget in October, has been crucial in securing the green light for the second phase.
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This means construction work will ramp up across Dudley borough this spring, starting along Duncan Edwards Way and the Merry Hill area.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said: "Good transport links are essential, helping people get to school, work, local shops and to enjoy a day out.
"Extending the metro further into the Black Country opens up routes for job opportunities, skills and growth, ensuring fast, reliable journeys for everyone across the West Midlands.
"Now that I have secured the funding from the Government and we've got the approvals needed, the work can start to make this long-awaited project a reality.
"With the first phase nearly complete, the metro is already creating jobs, supporting local businesses and attracting investment to the area and soon it will take those same opportunities into Dudley and Merry Hill."
The extension is being designed and built by the Midland Metro Alliance under contract from Transport for West Midlands.
Among the works already carried out for the second part include the restoration of the historic Parkhead Viaduct.
The structure, originally designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the 19th century, has been internally strengthened and futureproofed for a modern tramway while the original exterior brickwork has been restored and protected.
The project is being funded from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement awarded by the Department for Transport to the West Midlands Combined Authority for the delivery of key transport infrastructure projects.
