RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs, Will Golsby, said RAC welcomes the $1.6 billion in federal funding which now forms part of a $2.3 billion road and rail infrastructure package for projects across the State.
“As part of this package, $44.2 million will be provided for regional road projects to help improve road safety,” he said.
“Last year 60 per cent of road fatalities occurred in regional WA and this funding acknowledges the urgent need to address the devastating impact of road trauma.
“RAC has also consistently advocated for the delivery of projects like the Thornlie rail line and strongly welcomes federal funding for this project because it will deliver a much needed public transport option for members and commuters, helping to relieve the pressure of congestion in the area.
“Kelmscott’s Denny Avenue, which the community nominated as the most dangerous road in the State in RAC’s recent Risky Roads survey, will also receive federal funding. Two intersections along the road were also rated as the second and third riskiest intersections in Western Australia.
“It is pleasing to see $37.6 million allocated to implement smart freeways from Roe Highway to Narrows Bridge, and $10 million provided for planning work for the Bunbury Outer Ring Road.”
The Federal Budget has also confirmed that $792 million in funding allocated to WA is now subject to a positive assessment of the relevant business cases by Infrastructure Australia.
“RAC advocated strongly for the $1.2 billion, previously allocated to the Perth FreightLink, to remain in WA, and it is now important that the processes involved in the assessment of the projects move swiftly,” Mr Golsby said.
“We welcome the Australian Government and Western Australian Government reaching agreement on this funding.
“It is now critical that RAC members and the community have certainty around the projects including their timelines, how they will be funded and when they will be delivered, and that WA receives a fair share of funding in future Federal Budgets.”
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