Penrith is a key metropolitan centre, located on the western outskirts of Greater Metropolitan Sydney. Mulgoa Road is the main access route between Penrith, the M4 Motorway and the broader Sydney motorway network. Traffic volumes on Mulgoa Road range from 38,000 to 50,000 vehicles per average weekday.
Mulgoa Road currently experiences high levels of congestion, particularly during peak morning and afternoon periods, contributing to excess travel times and vehicle operating costs, and increasing safety risks. Congestion is expected to worsen over the next 15 years due to population and employment growth, as residential, commercial, industrial and recreational activity increases in the Penrith region.
Strategic Fit
Addressing the problem aligns with state and national policy and strategic objectives. The root causes and effects of population and employment growth, increased freight movements and limited transport modal choices result in nationally significant congestion costs in the longer term.
Societal Impact
Addressing the problems will improve productivity and quality of life for motorists travelling on Mulgoa Road and accessing the M4 Motorway.
Deliverability
The problems identified may be addressed through demand management and/or capital expenditure. Uncertainties associated with the problem should be identified and tested through further planning and development.
Proponent to identify and analyse potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework).
The proponent is currently undertaking further planning and developing a business case.