Interest call for Geraldton's Transport Corridor

27/7/02
Construction of the $88million Southern Transport Corridor at Geraldton moves another step closer today with the calling of expressions of interest for Stage One of the design and construct contract.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the transport corridor would improve the safety, accessibility and efficiency of road and rail links to the port.
"Achieving this milestone confirms the Gallop Government's commitment to the transport corridor, to Geraldton and to the Mid-West Region," Ms MacTiernan said.
"The transport corridor provides vital infrastructure to support future development of Geraldton and the Mid-West, and will create opportunities for improvements in economic growth, tourism and employment.
"Importantly the existing railway line will be removed from the city foreshore, so that the Geraldton city centre will have the full advantage of its wonderful beachfront.
"This contract will see the construction of the new rail alignment and the first section of the road from west of North West Coastal Highway to the Geraldton Port.
"It will incorporate improvements within the port precinct and include other associated works to connect the corridor to the local road system.
"Under the current timetable, residents can expect work on Stage One of the corridor project to start on-site mid next year and be complete by the end of 2005."
Ms MacTiernan said Main Roads and Western Australian Government Railways had worked closely with the City of Geraldton, Shire of Greenough, the Port Authority and the Environmental Protection Authority to identify and address the environmental and social impacts of the project.
She said this work had not only ensured that the needs of the local community had been thoroughly considered, but had also identified opportunities for the corridor to benefit other associated projects within the Mid-West Region.
Minister's office: 9213 6400