Alstonville Bypass to be fast-tracked
The Federal member for Page, Janelle Saffin, says the fast-tracking of the Alstonville Bypass is good news for the local community.
In Tuesday’s Federal Budget, the Government announced $13.6 million in advanced funding for the project in 2008-2009 so work could start a year earlier than scheduled.
Federal Labor’s election commitment was for $90 million to be available from Auslink 2 funding, covering the period from 2009 -2014.
Ms Saffin said the Rudd Labor Government has released some of the $90 million commitment early because it regards the Alstonville Bypass as a significant and long overdue road project .
“We want work to begin as soon as possible and I can’t foresee any impediments to tenders soon being called and for work to start in this coming financial year,” she said.
“I applaud Bob Wilson and his Alstonville Bypass Committee for keeping this project in the public eye for many years.
“When it’s completed the Bypass will be of great benefit to all Alstonville Plateau residents, and commuters who travel between Lismore and the coast.”
The Ballina Bypass is also being fast-tracked, with $100 million brought forward in the Federal Budget so construction work can get started.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Anthony Albanese, said urgent action was needed to fix Australia’s over-stretched transport networks and build infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
“That’s why we’re getting a head start on projects for NSW that weren’t due to commence until 2009-10. The Budget infrastructure packages will deliver on our election commitments, tackle major bottlenecks and help make our roads safer,” Mr Albanese said.
PICTURE: It’s been a long haul for Alstonville Bypass proponents, and there’s been many a protest.
