Mitchell and Kwinana freeways upgrade
The underlying problems include operational inefficiencies along the Mitchell and Kwinana freeways during peak periods due to capacity constraints and uncontrolled access for merging traffic. The proponent also identified that current configurations of public transport stations within the freeway corridor are resulting in poor access and inefficient routing. The proposal was first added to the Priority List as a Stage 1 proposal in March 2018.
The proposal also seizes an opportunity to complete gaps in the Principal Shared Path (PSP) network, which provides 30 kilometres of dedicated but discontinuous cycle paths parallel to the freeway corridor. Completing the gaps on the Mitchell Freeway requires less than five kilometres of new PSP network that would significantly improve amenity and safety by providing continuous shared paths for bicycle users and pedestrians to and from the city centre.
The proposal has three core objectives:
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improve forecast journey times and reliability for users on the freeway corridor
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improve safety outcomes on the freeway corridor for users
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use existing infrastructure more efficiently to cater to future demand.
Smart Freeway technology and additional travel lanes are proposed to better manage traffic. This would be combined with a behavioural change program, upgrades to the Principal Shared Path PSP network, and public transport enhancements.
Strategic Fit
The proposal responds to a clear strategic need for infrastructure and technology interventions that when individually and collectively delivered, would provide a safe, efficient and resilient transport corridor to address current issues and sustain future growth within and around Perth.
Societal Impact
The societal benefits of the proposal would significantly outweigh the associated costs, with a Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of 4.56 and a Net Present Value (NPV) of $3,008 million.
Overall, the proposal would improve quality of life and productivity through easing congestion through Perth’s main consumer and freight corridor, with associated improved employment and social infrastructure access.
Deliverability
The proponent is well-placed to deliver the proposal. They have identified appropriate procurement options, consulted widely with cross-government stakeholders, and identified risks learnings from similar interventions.
The program has received funding for the delivery of the Smart Freeway - Mitchell Southbound- Hester Avenue to Vincent Street (under construction), the Stirling and Canning Bridge bus interchanges and the Mitchell Freeway PSP - Civic Place to Reid Highway.
The proponent is to address residual risks which may impact the ease of implementation, including resolving environmental issues through community/stakeholder consultation and attainment of relevant approvals.
Proposed changes to the station and bus interchanges that result in re-routing of pedestrian access paths and construction of additional southbound freeway lanes are interventions that would require consultation with affected property owners and the wider community during subsequent stages of the planning and delivery process.
Finally, the preferred procurement model needs to be identified and implemented.
Refer to Infrastructure Glossary for terms and definitions.