QUIET: Anthony Albanese Source: The Daily Telegraph
THE Federal Government is refusing to be drawn on a commitment to a Toowoomba bypass, despite a local push to make the long-discussed road a federal election issue.
Industry, community and local and state government representatives joined federal MPs in the Garden City on Friday for a Toowoomba Regional Council-organised summit aimed at getting the bypass back on the agenda.
The second Range crossing, discussed by state and federal governments for over two decades, would provide an alternative route for heavy vehicles, but no government has yet committed to its construction.
The Federal Opposition, however, recently reaffirmed its $700 million four-year commitment to the project, if elected.
The State Government has nominated the proposed 42km road as one of its top three infrastructure priorities, and has submitted a revised $1.6 billion business case for the road for the consideration of Infrastructure Australia.
But it has stopped short of offering specific funding itself.
Speaking in Brisbane, Federal Transport and Infrastructure Minister Anthony Albanese would not be drawn on plans for the road.
"Those issues are all under assessment," Mr Albanese said.
"What we don't have is an infinite source of funds. We will make announcements based upon proper assessments and based upon priorities."
Toowoomba Mayor Paul Antonio said he would continue to push the road in the lead-up to the election.
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