The RAA are calling on the State Government to re-negotiate their funding split for the Greater Adelaide Freight Bypass, before the State Budget gets handed down on Thursday.
The Albanese and Malinauskas governments both committed to a 50/50 split of the $1.05bn project, however the peak motoring body is calling on the State Government to pursue a more realistic agreement, one which could mirror the Coalition’s 80/20 proposal before the federal election.
It comes as part of their pre-budget submission, which also calls for substantial investment in road maintenance for problems areas such as Victor Harbor Road, as well as a third lane on the South Eastern Freeway between Stirling and Verdun.
The motoring body highlights Victor Harbor Road between McLaren Vale and Willunga as one of its most complained about stretches of road, with an overall state maintenance backlog sitting at approximately $2bn.
RAA Chief Executive Officer Nick Reade said road maintenance is one of the most-raised issues by the organisation’s members.
“If we’re serious about making our roads safer, reducing congestion and helping to save lives, we need to see a much-needed funding boost for our roads in the upcoming State budget,” Mr Reade said.
“Anyone who drives on our roads, particularly in our regions, knows the deteriorating condition of some of our road network—cracks, potholes and crumbling shoulders are now commonplace.”
