No. 61

$15 MILLION TO BOOST ROAD ACCESS TO AIRPORT

The Stanhope Government has committed funding of $15 million for much-needed upgrades to roads around the airport as the first phase of a two-stage upgrade.

Minister for Territory and Municipal Services John Hargreaves said the works would relieve some of the traffic congestion surrounding the airport, particularly in the morning and evening peak hours.

“The project will improve a number of roads and intersections in the vicinity of the Canberra Airport,” said Mr Hargreaves.

“This includes a duplication of Pialligo Avenue between Beltana Road and the airport, and an upgrade of the intersection of Morshead Drive and Monaro Highway.

“In recent years, traffic congestion has increased markedly in the vicinity of the airport.  This congestion is a consequence of continuing development in Gungahlin, increased employment at the airport and residential development in surrounding NSW.”

Mr Hargreaves said today’s announcement follows the recommendations of the Airport Roads Taskforce that he convened last year.

“Last year, senior representatives from various ACT, State and Federal Departments, as well as representatives from the NSW RTA, Queanbeyan City Council and the Canberra Airport met to consider traffic issues in the airport vicinity.

“The taskforce recommended a range of works be undertaken in two stages. The initial stages will provide relief in the short term with the second stage of works to be considered in about five years’ time.

“This funding will realise Stage One of the two-stage project recommended by the Taskforce.

“This substantial work will provide relief to thousands of motorists who travel these roads daily. It will also assist visitors travelling to Canberra through the airport hub,” said Mr Hargreaves.

The ACT Government will work with the Australian Government to seek funding arrangements for the second stage of works.