TWO major transport infrastructure projects linking Armadale and Serpentine Jarrahdale will receive almost $500 million in funding in the next Federal Budget.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was in Perth on Friday to make the announcement, which will come as part of a $3.2 billion commitment to major WA infrastructure in the 2018-19 Federal Budget.
Mr Turnbull announced $241 million for the extension of the Armadale train line to Byford, while the Tonkin Highway Stage 3 extension, from Thomas Road through Mundijong Road to the South West Highway, will receive $253 million.
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READ NOWThe commitment comes just two weeks after opposition leader Bill Shorten announced the train line extension would receive the necessary funding if Labor won the next Federal Election.
Both the City of Armadale and the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale have advocated for the rail line extension as part of the South East Link project, which aims to boost the economic growth of the area through the improvement and creation of key infrastructure.
Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones said the extension was a high priority for the City.
“Currently, there is little evidence of a modal shift away from the use of motor vehicles to public transport and the extension will provide improved public transport access for residents, as well as shorter and safer commutes to work and reduced traffic congestion,” he said.
“The creation of a new station at Eleventh Road would service the Wungong catchment, in excess of 45,000 people, and the Byford North area.”
Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale President Michelle Rich said transport projects were vitally important to the area, which was one of the fastest growing in the state.
“The Shire welcomes any interest in infrastructure projects that will bring sustained benefit to the community, and we are committed to working with government to bring these projects online,” she said.
“We are continuing to speak with stakeholders at all levels of government to promote the importance connectivity throughout the south east metropolitan area and across the Peel region.”
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