SHIRE of Kalamunda has welcomed a commitment by Federal Labor to contribute $43 million towards the grade separation of Kalamunda Road and Roe Highway.
The Shire has advocated for Roe Highway and Kalamunda Road to be upgraded for some time and has sought a commitment from the Federal and State governments and Main Roads WA to prioritise the road grade separation of the intersection as a matter of urgency.
The grade separation is necessary to reduce congestion, improve safety and efficiency of the freight network and the travelling public.
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READ NOWCurrently the intersection of Kalamunda Road and Roe Highway creates congestion and inhibits free flowing traffic movement , particularly during traffic peak periods as a result of the mix of heavy, commercial and light vehicles on the Roe Highway versus predominantly light vehicles with a lesser commercial component on Kalamunda Road.
The Shire has been provided with an overall indicative concept plan prepared by Main Roads WA.
“I understand the proposed upgrade is estimated to cost $86 million to complete, this being a P50 estimate and includes all costs and future escalations,” Kalamunda Shire President Andrew Waddell said.
“Federal Labor’s commitment is a good start, but we need bi-partisan support and I call on the State and Federal Liberal governments to look at this intersection as it is in dire need of a grade separation, and I am calling on the State Opposition to also commit to funding the state’s share should it win government next year.”
We know that it is an issue – not just to traffic flow – but also to public safety.” An unruly State Parliament discussed funding for the project on Tuesday.
Member for Midland Michelle Roberts asked Minister for Transport Dean Nalder if he had plans to provide an overpass at the site.
Mr Nalder said he had numerous conversations with the Federal members for Forrestfield and Hasluck over funding for the area in question.
Ms Roberts said given the commitment for $43 million from Bill Shorten last week in Kalamunda, would the State government give the intersection funding priority?
Mr Nalder said he would not provide funding commitments while the Federal government was in caretaker mode.
“Until the Federal Election is said and done, I have not been commenting on either side because I think it is the appropriate and responsible thing to do as a Minister,” he said.