Source : the age
After weeks of uncertainty, the upgrade of one of Perth’s most notorious intersections promised by the state government under a 50/50 funding model with the Commonwealth has secured federal funding.
Monday’s Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2025 statement includes $225 million over the next eight years for the Reid Highway and Erindale Road interchange.
WAtoday understands the Coalition is gearing up to announce its support for the project, guaranteeing it goes ahead regardless of who wins the May 3 election.
The interchange was emerging as a political hot potato with WA Labor committing $225 million to for it, expecting the feds would eventually come to the party.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King will visit Perth on Tuesday to announce the funding.
She said the northern suburbs were growing rapidly and needed better transport infrastructure.
“This is one of many investments the Albanese Labor Government is making to upgrade roads and rail across Western Australia, including the Metronet, which is already transforming the commutes of Perth’s northern suburbs,” she said.
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
Cowan MP Anne Aly said she had been advocating for the upgrade for a decade.
“This is a much-needed upgrade that will help commuters get to and from home quicker and safer,” she said.
Both state Labor and the Liberals promised the $450 million upgrade during the WA election.
According to Main Roads WA data, the Balcatta intersection is the worst in the state for crashes, with 263 incidents over the past five years – 76 of which caused injuries.
It is also one of the most congested roads in the state, with government figures estimating it costs the economy $21.3 million per year in lost productivity.
“The Coalition will not sign a blank cheque to the states for cost blowouts.”
Saffioti was contacted for comment.
