AFTER about a decade in planning, construction on the High Street upgrade is finally under way.
The Federal Government is putting in $73.6 million for the project with the State Government contributing $44.4 million to upgrade a 1.5km stretch between Stirling Highway and Carrington Street.
Among the features of the project, which is expected to be completed in 2021, is a roundabout at the intersection of High Street and Stirling Highway that will have bypass lanes to separate traffic going to or from Fremantle Port, from those travelling to locations north of the river.
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READ NOWUnderpasses will be built at the junction of Forrest Street and Stirling Highway and at Montreal Street and High Street for pedestrians and cyclists.
Premier Mark McGowan gathered with Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge, Transport Minister Rita Saffioti and other local politicians yesterday to mark the start of the works.
Mr McGowan said the High Street changes would deliver a more efficient route for people travelling to and from Fremantle.
Mr Tudge said the upgrade would be a boost for the local economy, with WA builder Georgiou completing the construction works and 700 jobs expected to be created.
In the five years to 2018, there were 282 crashes along the section of High Street, including some truck rollovers at the High Street and Stirling Highway intersection.
“We also know that this intersection has become notorious for truck rollovers and the upgrade will mean a safer journey for locals and truck drivers,” Mr Tudge said.
Ms Saffioti said the project would also lead to more parking at the Fremantle Netball Association courts.
Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said it was an important project for the port city.
“It would be fair to say this has been one of the key safety and congestion points that has plagued this area for decades,” Dr Pettitt said.
“What is exciting is that we have a good outcome for the freight industry but also for local residents.”