NRMA: Pac Hwy needs another $2.5b
ACCORDING to the NRMA, funding provided in the State Budget for the Pacific Hwy of $1.5 billion coupled with Federal funding represents around 70% of the funding needed to finish the road that locals refer to as the black strip of death.
NRMA Motoring and Services president Wendy Machin said the NRMA welcomed the State Government's commitment but it would not be enough to complete the duplication of the highway by the proposed 2016 deadline.
"While we welcome the new funding, we know North Coast motorists will be disappointed that the deadline remains doubtful," Ms Machin said.
"The Pacific Highway is one of the most dangerous roads in the country and accounts for around one-third of fatalities on the National Network.
"If we are to see this project complete by the 2016 deadline, both Governments must come to an agreement on how they will fund the remaining $2.5 billion needed to finish the project.
The Pacific Highway is a project dear to Ms Machin's heart having grown up in Wingham and being the former State member for Port Macquarie.
Ms Machin said that finishing the duplication of the Pacific Hwy should be one of the top priorities for both the State and Federal Governments.
"In the NRMA's recent Red Flag survey, motorists across the state voted the Pacific Highway the worst road in NSW for the second year in a row," she said.
"We urge the Federal Government to make their $3.56 billion contribution unconditional and encourage both State and Federal Ministers to work together to find the additional money. Both governments made the 2016 deadline election commitments."
