RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said the project had been an RAC priority project since 2011.
“Perth is on its way to becoming the most congested capital in the country,” Mr Golsby said.
“In addition to having seven of the 10 most congested roads in the country by 2031, including the top four, Perth's public transport system will also be required to carry more than twice as many people as it did in 2011.
“Investing in Perth’s public transport system is a crucial part of the response to the congestion challenge we are facing.
“The extension of the Thornlie rail line will provide an attractive public transport option for commuters currently using the congested Roe Highway and those working in the Canning Vale industrial precinct, a major employment node.
“By helping to relieve congestion pressures it will release capacity along this important road corridor for freight and commercial traffic, delivering significant productivity benefits.”
Mr Golsby said work should start immediately with both major parties having now committed to the Thornlie rail line extension, and given RAC’s understanding that project development work is already well advanced with preliminary railway alignments and designs completed.
RAC also welcomes the commitment to ensuring the new stations along the route are developed with a mix of housing, businesses and retail outlets, as well as providing storage facilities for cyclists.
RAC media contact:
Kirsty Petrides 0401 703 719
media@rac.com.au
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