Construction of the first grade-separated interchange in the Great Southern region, at Menang Drive and Albany Highway, is now complete with the road ramps and bridge opened last week.
This project is part of the first phase of the $175 million Albany Ring Road project, which once complete will establish an 11 kilometre, free-flowing connection between the Albany Highway and Princess Royal Drive.
It will improve freight efficiency and reduce congestion on existing routes, assisting industry to grow and support more jobs.
Construction of two further interchanges along the Albany Ring Road alignment, at the South Coast Highway and Frenchman Bay Road, commenced earlier this year.
As part of the opening of the interchange at Menang Drive and Albany Highway, temporary traffic signals that have been in place to support traffic flow during construction will be removed.
During the coming months, a comprehensive revegetation and landscaping program will commence, with 15 hectares of feature planting, basin mixes and road reserve planting added to the area around the interchange.
Additionally, planning is underway with the City of Albany and local traditional owners to develop engaging artwork for the bridge walls to enhance the area. It is expected that the chosen theme will also be adopted and used on two further bridges along the alignment.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Federal Government and Western Australian State Government.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The completion of phase one of the Albany Ring Road is a positive step, which will see improved traffic flow and safety at the intersection of Menang Drive and Albany Highway.
“The Albany Ring Road is going to take heavy vehicles away from the town centre and out of residential areas, providing a greater opportunity for local businesses and improving commute times within the city.
“This project is about providing certainty for Albany port users, local businesses and the community by creating opportunities for growth.”
As stated by Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens:
“It is exciting to see as the local member, the road really taking shape, supporting jobs and opportunities for local businesses.
“This is a significant investment into our community that is going to support keeping our regional economy growing.”
