|
Work to widen and upgrade a 25 kilometre section of the Great Northern Highway will start next month - part of a $76 million plan to tackle traffic congestion in Perth's northern suburbs. Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese and his WA counterpart, Simon O'Brien, today announced the $15.28 million construction contract for works on the 4.3km metropolitan section of Great Northern Highway had been awarded to Highway Construction Pty Ltd. Mr Albanese said the Great Northern Highway was a critical part of the National Highway (Route 1), connecting Perth to the northern regions of Western Australia and the Northern Territory. "However, the existing Highway between Lennard Street and Muchea is too narrow to support expected traffic volumes, particularly the growing number of trucks using it," said Mr Albanese. "Today's announcement underscores our determination to plan and invest for Perth's future transport needs." Between now and 2031, the number of cars, trucks and buses using this section of the Great Northern Highway is expected to jump by almost 60 per cent from 16,000 to 25,000. Mr O'Brien said the road would be widened and include two 3.5 metre lanes - one in each direction - separated by a 3.5 metre median, greatly benefiting cyclists and the movement of heavy vehicles. "The upgrade will also include a sealed two metre shoulder on each side of the road, and overtaking lanes in both directions near Beryl Avenue," said Mr O'Brien. "The addition of left and right turning lanes at various junctions along the highway will reduce traffic congestion and help alleviate the frustration felt by local motorists. "Street lighting will also be improved and the adjacent land owners will benefit from newly installed underground power and telecommunications infrastructure, which is necessary to achieve the widening required." Pre-construction activities such as fencing and service relocations have already commenced between Haddrill Road and Padbury Avenue. Construction of the second and final stage - Padbury Avenue to Lennard Street - is expected to commence in October 2009 and be completed by April 2010.
Media Contacts
|
Jeff Singleton (
Mr Albanese's Office ) |
0410 476 890
|
|
Andrew Smith (
Mr O'Brien's Office ) |
0408 176 839
|
| 