The $1 billion Gateway WA project is on schedule for early completion at the start of 2016 and will provide much-needed improvements to the road network around the airport and Kewdale and Forrestfield industrial areas. As this iconic project draws to a close, construction of both the $1.12 billion NorthLink WA initiative and the $1.6 billion Perth Freight Link is expected to commence in early 2016. Together, this $3.7 billion trio will create a seamless transport freight link from Muchea to Fremantle, cementing Perth’s freight corridors as some of the most productive and efficient in Australia.
It is in the interest of all West Australians to ensure that the State has an effective freight network and that key infrastructure can continue to meet the State’s freight task to 2031 and beyond. The release of the Western Australian Regional Freight Transport Network Plan 2014 Report Card shows our significant progress made across the State towards the four key themes and 15 strategic directions set out in the plan.
The Perth metropolitan community recognises the management of traffic congestion as one of the highest priorities for Main Roads with 44% of road users believing their journeys are now taking longer. Infrastructure investment across the network is essential but it is only part of the solution.
Main Roads and portfolio partners the Department of Transport and the Public Transport Authority are also committed to planning and prioritisation and better integration and optimisation of our transport network to ensure it can meet future growth and demand. Work has commenced on the Perth Transport Plan for 3.5 million People and Beyond, which will look at options for roads, river crossings, mass transit, cycling, demand management and future technologies and I look forward to finalising this important planning document in 2016. This long-term vision for Perth’s transport network will be complemented by the Perth Central Area Transport Plan, which outlines a 10-year strategy for the CBD and surrounding key destinations and activity centres. Both plans will look at innovative ways to manage traffic demand across the network – a key priority now and in the future. Main Roads has continued to implement its Congestion Management Program throughout the year and is set to deliver a $40 million package of road improvements at hotspots across the metropolitan area to improve traffic flow and traveler information.
At the core of everything we do at Main Roads and across the wider transport portfolio are our travelers - our community. Together, we will continue to strive to deliver the best integrated and intelligent transport services to get each and every West Australian where they need to be as safely and efficiently as possible.
Reece Waldock
Commissioner of Main Roads
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