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A vision for SA’s transport infrastructure

Transport lobby group the Committee for Adelaide Roads (CAR) has revealed a vision for a sustainable future for South Australia’s transport infrastructure.

Announcing the launch of South Australia’s 2030 Transport Plan, CAR chairman Barrie Hosking said: “In looking ahead to 2030, the plan represents a change in thinking about transport in SA. It establishes a clear vision for the future, not just responding to today’s pressures but planning far enough ahead to genuinely shape the state’s future development.

“SA’s transport system is at the crossroads. We have under-invested in our transport and the basic framework of Adelaide’s transport network has not changed since the 1970s.”

Mr Hosking said while the state’s population is rapidly growing driven by the mining boom, the “piecemeal project-driven approach” to the transport system engendered challenges including an aging public transport system, urban congestion and the inability to handle the freight task, which is expected to double in the next two decades.

The group’s plans include improving freight movement through the construction of a rail by-pass to the east of Adelaide, extending the north-south corridor to create a system of orbital roads, replacing the passenger rail network with light rail, and devising a state-wide strategy for road maintenance.

With the proposed investment in new projects totalling $12.6 billion, Mr Hosking said the group expected to secure significantly higher levels of commonwealth funding and private sector funds through public-private partnerships (PPPs).

Mr Hosking said SA remains the only Australian state without a transport plan, and transport corridors need to be identified and reserved ahead of demand.

“Interstate and overseas experience has shown that transport projects have long-term horizons. What we build today needs to serve the anticipated growth in travel for the next 20 to 30 years.

“Our objective in launching the 2030 Transport Plan is to draw attention to the need for such a vision and engage the wider public in the debate,” he said.

CAR was established to provide input to government policy and to promote public debate on road transport infrastructure and economic development.

If you would like further information or make a comment contact Mike Canny, Deputy Chairman, Committee for Adelaide Roads on (08) 8332 4456.

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