WA State Budget 2019-20 allocates $4.1bn for METRONET

A record $4.1 billion has been invested towards job-creating METRONET projects by the Western Australian Government through the 2019-20 State Budget.

“Not only will it create a more sustainable and connected city as we continue to grow, the construction of METRONET will create thousands and thousands of jobs.

“Creating jobs is a key focus of the Budget and with a record investment for METRONET, we are creating a pipeline of work for Western Australians,” Premier Mark McGowan said.

This significant funding includes:

• $536 million for the Thornlie-Cockburn Link, with works expected to commence later in 2019
• $530 million for the Yanchep Rail Extension, with works expected to commence later in 2019
• $146 million for the new Bayswater Station and the first stage of the Morley-Ellenbrook Line, with works to commence later in 2019
• $207.5 million for the forward estimates to remove level crossings along the Armadale Line at Oats Street, Mint Street and Welshpool Road
• $1.2 billion for projects in detailed planning, including the Byford Rail Extension, Morley-Ellenbrook Line, Midland Station Project and the new Karnup Station

Other projects that will start later this year - also covered by the multi-billion dollar budget - include the construction to remove the Denny Avenue level crossing as well as planning for the Wharf Street, Hamilton Street and William Street level crossings along the Armadale Line; and more works on the Caledonian Avenue crossing on the Midland Line.

“This Budget includes an exciting vision for the Armadale Line - a boom gate blitz - that could see up to seven level crossings removed and nearby train stations turned into vibrant community precincts,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.

In addition, $1.6 billion of the METRONET budget will be spent over a 10-year period to build 246 new railcars and a new manufacturing facility in Bellevue. The preferred tenderer who will manufacture the new railcars is anticipated to be announced later this year.

The State Government has also secured approximately $2 billion in Commonwealth funding for the delivery of METRONET projects.

What are your thoughts on this significant investment for METRONET? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Source: Government of Western Australia; Inside Construction; WA Today; Mirage News