Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has committed to funding a NSW tunnel from the F3 to the M2 motorway. Source: AAP
INFRASTRUCTURE looks set to become a key issue in the lead-up to the September poll after both sides of federal politics made solid commitments to fund a vital tunnel link for Sydney.
The NSW government is close to striking a deal with federal Labor on funding for the eight-kilometre project linking NSW's F3 and M2 motorways.
Under the plan, both levels of government would invest up to $400 million, with construction to start as early as next year.
The rest of the $3 billion needed would be provided by a private company that would recoup funds through a toll.
Infrastructure Minister Anthony Albanese said it was the "missing link" in the city's road network.
"There's no doubt that this is an important road for Sydney and it's important that infrastructure development be progressed in terms of dealing with traffic congestion in Sydney."
Mr Albanese is set to meet with Mr Gay this week, who said discussions had so far been "friendly and we're close but we're not there yet".
NSW Treasurer Mike Baird said it was important not to overcommit the state, while Premier Barry O'Farrell refused to be drawn on whether Transurban wanted to increase the toll on the M7 to pay for the new road.
"I've always believed that those people who enjoy the benefit of a toll road are the people who should pay the toll," he said.
Federal central coast MP Craig Thomson earlier told AAP that cash for the tunnel would be included in next Tuesday's budget.
"It's something commuters on the central coast have been looking forward to for some time," said the Labor-turned-independent member for Dobell.
Mr Abbott weighed into the matter, saying his government was committed to the four-year project, which involves a tunnel from the F3 near Hornsby under Pennant Hills Road to the M2.
"We will get this link built," he said.
"(It) will mean shorter travel times, reduced congestion and safer roads.
"It also means reduced freight costs for all trucks that use this important national road corridor."
Mr Abbott said he would release the full details of the funding commitment prior to the next election.
Infrastructure Partnerships Australia chief executive Brendan Lyon said it welcomed a consensus in Canberra that would put real funding on the table.
"The matching commitments also point to infrastructure being a key federal election issue, with voters increasingly frustrated by congestion and other symptoms of the nation's infrastructure ills," he said.
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