- $2 million allocated to upgrade Derby Highway between Sutherland and Juld Street
- Works include widening, footpath improvements and street lighting to improve safety
- Funding provided through 2020-21 Black Spots Program which will improve 92 roads across Western Australia
- McGowan Government delivering major road projects across the Kimberley creating local jobs
Premier Mark McGowan and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti were joined by Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer today in Derby to announce $2 million to upgrade Derby Highway between Sutherland Street and Juld Street.
Funding will go to safety improvements including widening Derby Highway at the intersection of Waycott Street, including construction of additional turning pockets, and pedestrian facilities.
In the centre of this popular Kimberley hub, many locals and visitors cross the highway on foot to access the shopping precinct, and the current facilities do not provide a safe stopping place for pedestrians to cross.
A refuge island and a raised platform will be constructed to allow pedestrians to cross at the same level on either side of the highway. Ramps will be included to make this crossing suitable for wheelchairs.
Works also include the upgrade of drainage, street lighting, signs and pavement markings. Improvements will also be made to the footpaths in the area to ensure a suitable surface for all pedestrians.
Construction will commence in April 2021 and is expected to be completed by August 2021.
Funding is provided by the Black Spots program which has provided almost $500 million, since its inception in 2000 to upgrade some of Western Australia's most dangerous roads.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"This $2 million worth of upgrades will improve safety for pedestrians and drivers.
"My Government is committed to investing in regional roads, with more than $4 billion allocated to upgrades and improvements across the State.
"Works such as this improve safety, support local jobs and provide opportunities for local businesses."
Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"We recognise the importance of this section of Derby Highway, and are taking action to improve safety for pedestrians.
"Since its inception in 2000, the State Black Spots Program has delivered almost $500 million worth of upgrades to some of WA's most dangerous roads.
"We are committed to delivering for the Kimberley region with a number of important road upgrades underway including the Broome Cape Leveque Road sealing."
Comments attributed to Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer:
"Derby is a popular town in the Kimberley and I'm pleased to see these upgrades will improve safety at one of our most important roads.
"I'm pleased to be a part of the McGowan Government that is delivering for the Kimberley community."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Transport Minister's office - 6552 5500
