RAC wants cash to boost city rail
The RAC has urged the Federal Government to sink money into light and heavy rail across Perth, arguing the city needs public transport to prevent widespread traffic gridlock.
In its Budget submission to Treasurer Joe Hockey, the motorists' organisation listed the $2 billion Perth light-rail project as the No. 1 priority for the city.
It also believes a $340 million rail line to link the Thornlie and Cockburn stations would win Federal funding.
The Federal Government ditched expected funding for the light and heavy rail projects across Perth at the 2013 election.
Instead, it surprised the transport sector by unveiling a $900 million commitment to the Perth freight link in last year's Budget.
Although Premier Colin Barnett confirmed this week the State was still committed to the MAX light-rail project, it has been delayed at least four years, with it not to be in place until 2022 at the earliest.
The RAC, however, believes money should flow from Canberra now into MAX and the Thornlie rail line.
RAC corporate affairs manager Will Golsby said the projects presented the opportunity to make Perth a more productive city by freeing-up its clogged streets.
He said MAX was of particular significance to Perth's longer term future.
"It would provide a high- quality mass-transit option along corridors which currently experience high levels of traffic congestion during peak periods," Mr Golsby said. "It would act as a land-use driver, enabling higher density development of a mix of uses which are highly accessible, and will connect key tertiary education campuses.
"Perth light rail is a city-shaping project which has the potential to significantly improve Perth's economic productivity."
Mr Golsby said improved public transport systems would help Perth's overall road network by freeing-up roads.
Apart from the light and heavy rail, the RAC is looking for the May Budget to sink cash into road management technology that would improve traffic flow on major roads.
It also wants to see money put into grade separations between the Reid Highway and Erindale Road and the Bunbury outer ring road.
