The state government has annouced three preferred tenders to construct Stage Two of the Geraldton Southern Transport Corridor, which includes the final 8.7km section of highway.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan today announced Abi Group Contractors Pty Ltd, Laing O'Rourke Australia Pty Ltd and MacMahon Contractors Pty Ltd, from a field of five companies that submitted Expressions of Interest for the project.
"These companies will now submit detailed proposals and pricing to construct the final section of the highway from the North West Coastal Highway connection, just north of the Waverley Street overpass and eastward through to the Geraldton-Mt Magnet road near the Geraldton Airport," Ms MacTiernan said.
"We expect to announce the preferred proponent in late August, with construction to commence towards the end of the year.
"The road should be open for traffic in early 2010."
Stage Two will also incorporate provisions for intersections with the proposed 'Road B' (access into Mt Tarcoola area) and the proposed North-South Route.
Geraldton/Walkaway Road, Deepdale Road (south), Deepdale Road (north) and the airport access road will be constructed as part of the works.
Geraldton MLA Shane Hill said when completed, the $58million project would significantly benefit the local community and industry within Geraldton and the Mid-West region.
"Having a direct east-west link to the Geraldton Port and an alternative route for freight vehicles will improve access and efficiency for the transport industry," Mr Hill said.
"It will also improve safety by reducing conflict between freight and passenger vehicles."
