Work has commenced to ease congestion on the busy off-ramps to Perth Airport, with upgrades underway at the busy Tonkin Highway/Dunreath Drive intersection.
The works will modify the existing Tonkin Highway southbound off-ramp to provide a dedicated turn lane into Dunreath Drive, with the northbound off-ramp improved by part-time roundabout metering.
Unlike normal traffic signals, the new metering signals on the roundabout only operate when traffic builds up – at all other times normal roundabout rules apply. This creates gaps in traffic, helping to ease congestion and solve excessive queuing and delays during peak periods.
Over 14,000 vehicles use the Dunreath Drive off-ramp every day with this number expected to climb by at least 30 per cent with the opening of Perth’s first Costco in the area, later this year.
Construction is now underway, with completion expected later this year.
The project is jointly funded by the State Government and Perth Airport.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Perth Airport is already a hub of activity in its own right, and with new developments, including the new Costco, traffic in the area will increase.
“These upgrades will improve traffic flow, and along with the Forrestfield-Airport Link which is due to open in late 2021, will help ease congestion around this important precinct.”
As stated by Belmont MLA Cassie Rowe:
“Many people in my electorate use Tonkin Highway on their daily commutes and I understand how frustrating it can be when stuck in stop start traffic.
“With more than 14,000 vehicles using this intersection every day, and this expected to grow 30 per cent with the opening of Costco, these upgrades are very timely and will help local residents spend less time on the road and more time with family and friends.”
