Both heavy vehicle drivers and regular commuters are now enjoying safer and smoother travel along Thomas Road, south of Perth, thanks to the completion of an $81 million upgrade.
The south-east is an important and fast-growing area, with large volumes of heavy vehicles and other through traffic travelling to and from the South West and Wheatbelt regions.
Both projects were jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments.
The program of works commenced in early 2022, with a range of improvements delivered including:
- dual carriageway between Kwinana Freeway and Bombay Boulevard;
- construction of a roundabout at Bombay Boulevard and a four-metre-wide pedestrian and cyclist path with lighting;
- construction of a dual lane roundabout at Thomas Road and Nicholson Road and upgrades on approach to the intersection;
- construction of a dual lane roundabout at Thomas Road and Kargotich Road;
- additional street lighting between Bombay Boulevard and Kargotich Road; and
- added safety measures between Kwinana Freeway and Cumming Road including shoulder widening, new line markings, raised reflectors and resurfacing.
The final package of works involved the construction of new two-lane roundabouts at the intersections of Nicholson and Kargotich Road.
The new roundabouts will improve safety and traffic efficiency for the more than 19,000 vehicles that pass through the intersections daily.
Further upgrades are planned for the road through the Tonkin Highway Extension, which is expected to commence construction next year.
The State and Federal Governments have also delivered a new traffic bridge over the rail line on Thomas Road as part of the METRONET Byford Rail Extension project, removing a level crossing and significantly improving road safety in the area.
Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The Australian Government will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to deliver upgrades that will increase road safety, reduce congestion and improve travel times.
"The completion of the Thomas Road upgrades ensures the best possible outcome for motorists and heavy vehicle traffic for this fast-growing region, now and into the future."
Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Thomas Road is a critical route for both the movement of freight and for local communities, which is why we implemented this program of works to make the road safer for all.
"The safety upgrades have included additional lanes, more street lighting and roundabouts - all of which will provide a safer and smoother journey for road users.
"These upgrades will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion while making it safer for heavy vehicles, including oversize, over-mass loads, to traverse this key freight route.
"These upgrades are just one example of how our Government is investing to make the road network safer for everyone in the community."
Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:
"It's fantastic that the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are delivering the infrastructure investment our community needs to keep business and people moving.
"Bottlenecks on Thomas Road have been an issue for residents in Byford and Oakford for some time. Thanks to these upgrades, people will now be able to get between work and home safely and quickly."
Quotes attributed to State Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones:
"Road safety remains a critical issue for people in our community, and I am thrilled to see this important project reach completion.
"Our Government is investing billions of dollars to improve the transport infrastructure for communities in the Darling Range electorate, including the METRONET Byford Rail Extension and the Tonkin Highway Extension and Thomas Road Upgrade.
"These projects will fundamentally transform our community, and my focus is to get them delivered, so people can start to enjoy the benefits."
