Construction of the $175 million Albany Ring Road will begin in September, unlocking hundreds of local jobs, after Western Australian company Decmil Southern Pty Ltd was named preferred proponent to deliver the project.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Albany Ring Road is a critical piece of infrastructure that will underpin the economic success of the Great Southern Region for years to come.
"The Australian Government has contributed $140 million to this project, which will improve safety for everyone travelling through the region, including tourists and freight drivers," Mr McCormack said.
"Scheduled to be completed in 2023, this project will improve connections between major freight infrastructure including airports and commercial and industrial areas, creating more economic opportunities for this crucial region.
"The completed Albany Ring Road will link the existing major roads and highways radiating from Albany.
"It will bypass urban areas and provide unimpeded road access to the Port of Albany, underpinning its future economic viability.
"The first phase of the connection to get underway will be the new interchange at Albany Highway and Menang Drive, as well as construction of the section of the Ring Road south to Lancaster Road.
"Detailed designs for the second phase of the project, from Lancaster Road to Princess Royal Drive, will also take place over the next 12 months, enabling construction to begin subject to environmental approvals being received.
"This is yet another example of the Australian Government continuing to roll out our $100 billion nationwide infrastructure pipeline, of which over half is earmarked for regional projects, supporting jobs and communities at a time when it's needed the most."
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said this was another major infrastructure project that would provide opportunities for local workers and businesses.
"We have invested an unprecedented amount into regional roads and I'm pleased to see that this project will commence construction within months," Ms Saffioti said.
"Decmil Southern is a fantastic WA based company and I'm pleased to see them named as the preferred proponent to deliver this major project.
"The Albany Ring Road project is expected to support more than 1,000 jobs during the life of the project, with a Local Industry Participation Plan tailored to give local businesses opportunities to get involved in the project, generating employment and building their skill base.
"As with all transport infrastructure projects we will also be actively seeking opportunities for both Aboriginal employment and engagement of Aboriginal businesses."
Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson said the project will deliver significant safety benefits.
"This project will include grade-separated (bridged) interchanges at the intersections of Albany Highway and Menang Drive; Albany Ring Road and South Coast Highway; Albany Ring Road, Hanrahan Road and Frenchman Bay Road; and Frenchman Bay Road and the freight railway line," Mr Wilson said.
"By reducing the number of heavy vehicles on Albany Highway, South Coast Highway and Chester Pass Road, the project will relieve congestion for the freight industry and enhance safety outcomes for local and tourist traffic."
State Member for Albany Peter Watson said that the design would ensure safe and uninterrupted access to the Port of Albany.
"This design will provide certainty for current port users and an incentive for future investors," Mr Watson said.
"The project will also unlock new economic opportunities to the west of the city by opening up the area through a high quality road connection."
The Australian Government is providing $140 million towards this $175 million project, with the Western Australian Government contributing $35 million.
