Why major Perth freeway might be getting extended
Nearly 20 years since it was identified as a key strategic project 'essential for the future development of WA' by the former state government, work on upgrading the Orrong Road corridor has struggled to gain momentum, but progress is finally in sight.
A community panel of about 50 local residents and stakeholders has delivered its final recommendations to Main Roads WA after spending several sessions evaluating possible solutions for the congested corridor.
As part of the proposed Orrong Connect upgrade, the Graham Farmer Freeway would be extended in some form all the way to Leach Highway.
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Currently, about 65,000 vehicles use the corridor daily, with congestion estimated to cost the local economy up to $49.5 million annually.
An upgrade to Orrong Road was flagged in 2008 by the Barnett government alongside major infrastructure projects such as the Perth City Link and Gateway WA projects, both of which are now complete. Orrong Connect would see the Graham Farmer Freeway extended to Leach Highway. Credit: Main Roads WA
Despite already suffering from major traffic delays, Main Roads has stated that without major upgrades, congestion along the Orrong Road corridor will significantly worsen as population and vehicle numbers grow.
Speaking to PerthNow, a Main Roads spokesperson said the business case for Orrong Connect is expected to be fully developed by early 2027, following a detailed review of the community panel's recommendations.
'The report provided by the Deliberative Panel for Orrong Road is currently being reviewed by Main Roads, including detailed assessment of the recommendations and consultation with key project stakeholders, ensuring an integrated, collaborative approach,' the spokesperson said.
'The review will assist in determining a preferred option, with next steps to include the creation of a business case for construction funding.'
During these independently facilitated sessions, community panel members worked together to shape a plan aimed at 'improving safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing connectivity'. In 2019, Main Roads released an initial concept design showing plans to sink Orrong Road. Credit: Main Roads WA
PerthNow requested a copy of the panel's report but Main Roads considers it premature to release the document while it is still being reviewed and assessed.
Among the options expected to be considered is a sunken freeway running down the middle of Orrong Road, creating an open-air tunnel, a concept Main Roads WA first detailed six years ago.
Although commuters shouldn't expect bulldozers on site anytime soon, some work is under way to improve pedestrian safety along Orrong Road.
Electronic speed limit signs on the approach to the Orrong Road and Corser Street traffic warden-controlled children's crossing have recently been installed.
'Once commissioned (expected within the coming three weeks), a 40km/h speed limit will be active during school zone periods, enhancing pedestrian safety,' a Main Roads spokesperson said.
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