Perth Voice Interactive

NORTH FREO residents say they are “frustrated” and “angry” by the gridlock already being caused by construction of Fremantle’s new traffic bridge. 

The North Fremantle Community Association issued an email to residents to “address the mounting traffic chaos” caused by the partial closure of the old traffic bridge while it is being redeveloped. 

According to 25 responses to the email, residents say there has been repeated traffic gridlock, especially from mid-afternoon until 6pm, with traffic “banking up” on Stirling Highway to Tydeman and Alfred Roads, as well as south of the bridge at Preston Point Road. 

The NFCA say there has been very little communication about solutions or contingency plans from Main Roads WA; they wonder what the situation will be like when the bridge is fully closed later this year. 

NFCA convenor Gerard MacGill says the traffic snarls make it “extremely difficult” for residents to travel into the CBD. 

“If they have a plan, they haven’t told us, and it’s about time they do,” Mr MacGill said. 

“There’s no point in saying that the bridge won’t close for another six to eight months or whatever it is… the problem is now, and people are frustrated, people are angry. 

“If you prepare people well for the ultimate problem, they might more easily reconcile themselves to it and simply accept that they have to plan and be patient.” 

The residents also contributed a range of suggestions to mitigate the gridlock, including ‘keep clear’ zones in the intersections along Stirling Highway, and changes to traffic light priorities. 

Main Roads are “aware of the concerns” highlighted by North Freo residents and will “consider the applicability and suitability” of their suggestions, according to spokesperson Dean Roberts. 

“The new Fremantle Traffic Bridge will significantly reduce congestion in the area, but as with most major infrastructure projects, there will be disruption during the construction process,” Mr Roberts said. 

“The project team continues to liaise closely with the community to ensure appropriate traffic management is in place.” 

Mr Roberts says MRWA are focusing on “extensive planning” to ensure a comprehensive strategy to deal with the bridge’s full closure. 

“Measures under consideration include modifications to the road network, including changes to intersections and accesses to prioritise key movements, and additional Intelligent Transport Systems initiatives, such as cameras, to monitor traffic conditions,” Mr Roberts said. 

“We are also examining alternative travel arrangements, including public transport capacity, potential for mode switch, route choice, travel time changes, flexible working arrangements, and car-pooling. 

“The changes will be communicated extensively over the coming months.”

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER