Designs for the second phase of construction on the $175 million Albany Ring Road, between Lancaster Road and Princess Royal Drive, have been revealed today following extensive community feedback.
The designs outline a new interchange on the Ring Road at South Coast Highway, including reinstating full access between George Street and South Coast Highway, and the removal of an access ramp on the southern side of the interchange to avoid environmentally sensitive habitat.
A single bridge structure linking Hanrahan Road to Frenchman Bay Road will pass over the Albany Ring Road and the freight rail line. New roundabouts will be constructed to the north and south of the interchange to provide access to and from the Ring Road and Lower Denmark Road.
Over the past 12 months, each interchange design has evolved to reduce the project's environmental and heritage footprint, while maintaining the free-flowing route and maximising local connectivity.
The design changes also remove any impacts of the project on the heritage-listed World War Two fuel oil storage tanks to the north of the alignment.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project is another example of Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson's determination to deliver for the people of this region, to make sure the infrastructure they need and deserve is funded and delivered.
"This is the Federal Government's record $110 billion infrastructure investment plan in action, helping to connect communities and improve safety, while creating jobs and supporting our economic recovery," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the Ring Road will take heavy vehicles out of residential areas and away from the centre of town, improving safety and amenity for residents and visitors to the area.
"It's great to see construction activity progressing, generating new jobs and contracting opportunities for local businesses," Minister Saffioti said.
"The updated concept designs for the latter stages of the project were developed in response to feedback from local residents and environmental groups, and we look forward to construction in these locations commencing shortly."
Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson said the Federal Government has contributed $140 million to this project, which will improve safety for everyone travelling through the region, including tourists and freight drivers.
"This project will improve connections between major freight infrastructure including airports and commercial and industrial areas, creating more economic opportunities for this crucial region," Mr Wilson said.
"The Albany Ring Road is a major project of regional and national significance, providing safe and reliable access to the Port of Albany.
"The project will also unlock new economic opportunities to the north and west of the city, by opening up the area through a high-quality road connection."
State Member of the Legislative Assembly for Albany Rebecca Stephens said she is pleased that Phase 2 designs have been updated following community feedback.
"Maintaining full access between George Street and South Coast Highway is a big win," Ms Stephens said.
"The new designs will also remove any impacts on the heritage-listed World War Two fuel oil storage tanks and I look forward to working with the project team and the City over the next year to look at how we can activate this space for the local community."
Over the next year, Main Roads WA will progress discussions with the City of Albany and other local stakeholders around activating the space around the tanks for the community's enjoyment.
Major construction on the project is continuing following the installation of Mechanically-Stabilised Earth bridge walls on either side of Albany Highway, paving the way for bridge beam installation in October.
Construction of the section of the Ring Road from South Coast Highway to Princess Royal Drive is expected to begin by the end of the year, subject to environmental and regulatory approvals.
The Australian Government has committed $140 million toward the $175 million Albany Ring Road project, with the Western Australian Government committing the remaining funding.
