GHD-Arcadis JV secures contract for Easing Sydney's Congestion program

Transport for NSW has awarded the joint venture between GHD and Arcadis the contract to deliver Phase 2 of the Easing Sydney’s Congestion (ESC) program, providing design and technical services over the next five years. 

The ESC program will deliver targeted improvements to road networks across Sydney to help reduce congestion. Works will include intersection upgrades, smart technology as well as assisting innovation and program delivery. 

The joint venture partners, under their contract, will aim to deliver the program of works with a sustainable approach to assist in achieving the New South Wales Government’s goal of 50 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. 

“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to contribute to Sydney’s transport future together with Arcadis. We want to leave a strong, safe and user centric legacy for Sydney, as well as the transport industry. 

“We not only want to leave behind a legacy of improved road use experience, through the delivery of this program we also want to contribute to a more sustainable workforce for decades to come,” GHD Transport Market Leader for Sydney Rebecca Want said. 

Key initiatives under the ESC program include the delivery of the M4 Smart Motorway, the Parramatta Congestion Improvements Program and accelerated Pinch Point and Clearways Programs. 

The M4 Smart Motorway project will introduce intelligent technology along the route between Pitt Street, Parramatta and Mulgoa Road in Penrith. The State Government has invested $600 million in this project. 

The New South Wales Government has also committed $30 million towards the Parramatta Congestion Improvements Program. This program will deliver upgrades to key intersections that have access to the Parramatta CBD, helping reduce congestion around the area. 

The Pinch Point Program, on the other hand, will deliver works to help reduce traffic delays, manage congestion and improve travel times along Sydney’s major roads. 

Lastly, the Sydney Clearways Program will install new and extended clearways to reduce congestion as well as delays on Sydney’s roads. 

“The ESC program is a critical initiative that will bring economic, social and environmental benefits to greater Sydney. We’re excited by the opportunity to apply Arcadis’ core capabilities in strategic design, sustainability and digital solutions, in partnership with GHD, to deliver on the Government’s objectives,” Arcadis Business Area Director for Mobility Balinda Virant said. 

Source: GHD; Arcadis; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Roads Australia; Transport for NSW