More than $430 million has been confirmed for Perth’s MAX Light Rail project within a $5.7 billion infrastructure investment strategy.
The Government of Western Australia has also announced initial funding for the $2 billion Airport Rail line and a new multi-storey car park at Edgewater Train Station.
Treasurer and Transport Minister Troy Buswell said: “Last year alone, there were an extra 750,000 boardings on the northern line, adding to what was our busiest year on the public transport network, reflecting the dramatic increase in the population of Perth.”
He added: “As it grows, more and more people are turning to public transport.
“We are the fastest-growing capital city in Australia, with growth of 3.3 per cent. Last year alone, 75,000 people moved to our city – and our people transport network catered for an extra five million boardings.”
The new light rail route would run for 22 kilometres from Mirrabooka in the north of the city, through the central business district, then along two separate branches to the QEII Medical Centre and the Causeway.
Construction is due to begin in 2016.
“More people are using our services than ever before – so we are investing in public transport infrastructure for the long term to combat congestion,” added Buswell.
