Funding to fix Wyndham’s overstretched roads and crowded public transport must be fast-tracked in next week’s state budget, according to mayor Bob Fairclough.
Cr Fairclough, who has led a campaign urging state and federal leaders to boost roads spending, said the council’s priority was to reduce the flow-on effect of large-scale transport projects in the outer west, including the metro rail tunnel and the western section of the contentious east-west link.
“Funding for improved bus services is also a very high priority,” he said.
“Restructuring the timetable is needed to ensure buses meet train services when Regional Rail Link services begin, and there needs to be more commuter parking at stations.”
Cr Fairclough said the council had made an urgent submission to the government highlighting the need for greater investment in local schools. Existing schools were overcrowded and maintenance was desperately needed at Tarneit Senior and Werribee Secondary colleges.
Cr Fairclough said arterial road upgrades were also critical.
His calls were echoed by Cr John Gibbons. “Funding to improve Dohertys Road to Laverton North is absolutely essential,” he said.
“It’s simply dangerous for drivers and pedestrians. With the construction of the railway, it’s paramount that all roads surrounding the project are improved or there will be more hold-ups and traffic jams on already congested roads.’’
Fellow councillor and National Growth Areas Alliance spokeswoman Heather Marcus said road improvements were desperately needed.
“But along with improving roads, we need to make sure there is infrastructure that keeps up with the demand of the population,’’ Cr Marcus said. ‘‘Improving employment opportunities for a more prosperous future is also a key area the state government needs to invest in.”
The state budget will be announced next Tuesday.
