The ACT Government is investing record amounts in building better infrastructure to prepare Canberra for the future, says Chief Minister Katy Gallagher, who released the Government’s updated infrastructure plan at the site of the new Harrison High School today.

The plan is a 10-year blueprint for infrastructure planning, and the first annual update on the plan released  in 2010.

“Our city faces many challenges as our population grows and ages, we adapt to a low-carbon economy and we continue to ensure the ongoing strength of our economy.  Our current population growth, at two per cent, is above the national average and over the next decade Canberra’s population is expected to rise by more  than 50,000 to 414,367,” says Ms Gallagher.

“We are committed to ensuring the Canberra community is ready meet these challenges and harness our future potential as a city.  The infrastructure plan demonstrates how we intend to do this over the next decade in key priority areas of health, education, jobs and the environment.

“The latest ACT Budget includes a record $885 million for capital works over the next four years.  We’re committed to making these important investments and we’re committed to delivering the projects on time.

“In the 2010 plan, the Majura Parkway was still on the wish list.  Now, because we have worked constructively with the Federal Government, we now have joint funding of $288 million ready to upgrade this important infrastructure.

“We are investing in projects that deliver the best triple bottom line benefits for Canberrans. An example is our proposal for a government office block, combined with funding for feasibility work on making Northbourne Avenue a rapid public transit corridor including light rail which is included in the Budget and in this plan.”