21 July 2010 in Mayo News
Federal Liberals commit to second freeway interchange at Mount Barker
Today I am very pleased to announce that the next Liberal Government will provide funding for a second freeway interchange in Mount Barker.
Mount Barker is growing rapidly with one of the fastest growth rates in South Australia. The growth that has already occurred has not been matched by investment in vital transport infrastructure causing significant community concern. This investment will go some way to reducing the pressure on already overcrowded roads.
In addition, the only access to the South Eastern Freeway is rapidly reaching its limit raising genuine concerns about safety, particularly in a bushfire threatened area.
Construction of a second freeway interchange has been identified as the number one priority by local councils.
The District Council of Mount Barker has estimated that this project will cost $43.7 million.
The Federal Liberals will begin funding this project in the 2013/14 financial year with the federal commitment totalling $22 million.
As per normal practice, it is expected the project will be jointly funded with the State Government. The State Liberals have already indicated that they would jointly fund this project.
This project will be run in conjunction with the District Council of Mount Barker, who is to be commended on its efforts to meet the demands of regional growth.
This is an exciting announcement and is real action to address a major challenge in our community.