Geraldton transport corridor opens two months ahead of schedule

The $52million Geraldton Southern Transport Corridor Stage Two project was officially opened today, on budget and more than two months ahead of schedule.

Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said the strategic infrastructure project would provide an 8.7km single east-west carriageway from the North West Coastal Highway to Mount Magnet Road, a direct road link to Geraldton Port and easier access to Geraldton Airport.

"The Liberal-National Government is providing Geraldton with the infrastructure requirements needed for the city to reach its full potential," Mr O'Brien said.

"Projects such as the Southern Transport Corridor and the development of Oakajee will enable the Mid-West to meet the pressures generated by the emerging resource projects in the region.

"In years to come, the Mid-West will play a more significant and important role in driving the nation's economy and it is important the region has the infrastructure to efficiently cater for expected future growth."

The Minister said local residents would welcome the new road, which would provide much-needed relief by taking big vehicles away from residential areas.

"The safety and social impacts of this new road are immeasurable.  It means that freight traffic will no longer need to travel through built up areas," he said.

In line with the State Government's determination to support regional jobs, this project provided an important boost to the Geraldton economy.  Its long term benefits for the region will be immeasurable.

"Many local contractors have benefited with works being undertaken on a wide range of construction activities," Mr O'Brien said.

"These included: supply of pavement materials; concrete supply and lay; various plants and operator hire; construction of noise walls and brick paving; materials testing; and survey services."