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NT Budget: transport

Transport is on the agenda for the Northern Territory Government as announced in the Budget 2016

Regional bus services and public transport infrastructure will be invested in, under the Northern Territory Budget 2016.

Minister for Transport Peter Chandler says infrastructure is a high priority for the Northern Territory Government and roads, in particular, are of great importance to business, industry and the community.

“We all know that without reliable roads, efficient ports, good rail services and effective logistics infrastructure, we cannot sustain business activity, attract new investment, or expand our industries – all essential for growing the territory’s economy,” he says.

A total of $589.6 million is being invested in 2016-17 to deliver transport infrastructure including $495.9 million in capital works, $10 million to continue the Regional Economic Infrastructure Fund Grants and $2.25 million for infrastructure related expenses to plan for the future transport needs/

There will also be an investment of $36.1 million into critical transport infrastructure as part of Budget 2016.

A total of $19.4 million has been allocated to new investment in transport, with $14.2 million to be spent on capital works and $5.2 million on minor new works.

“The investment would result in critical upgrades to six regional aerodromes; several barge landings; improvements to the safety and operation of the Cullen Bay navigational channel; facilitate upgrades to the Parap Road Safety Centre as well as improvements to bus shelters,” says Chandler.

“The funding will support the development of local industry, improves access to health and other essential services and enhances tourism traffic and job creation.”

Under the budget, government has committed to various projects as part of the Minor New Works Program including $160,000 to install CCTV at the Darwin City bus stop to deter antisocial behaviour and $25,000 installation of bike racks at bus stops.

Government has also committed $1 million and an additional $1.4 million over three years for operational costs for regional bus routes.

 “These investments in our infrastructure and services are part of the Country Liberals Government commitment to building a prosperous economy by delivering critical infrastructure and improving access to goods and services for remote Territorians as well as enhancing our unique territory lifestyle the community values greatly,” says Chandler.

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