CM: Land swap for tunnel is in Seri Tanjung Pinang, not Gurney Drive
GEORGE TOWN (Nov 16, 2011): Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has clarified that a reported land swap offer for companies to build highways and a sea-tunnel in Penang does not involve the iconic Gurney Drive, but the nearby Seri Tanjung Pinang where reclamation has already been approved under the previous state government.
He also stressed that no form of monetary payment or funding, including pre-payments or advanced payments will be provided by the state government for implementation of the projects.
Speaking at a press conference here yesterday, he said the state foresees that the existing road network and capacity may not be able to accommodate traffic in the near future, due to factors like the increasing numbers of tourists.
In fact, traffic congestion may worsen at several critical intersections and adjoining roads, he stressed.
On calls for the state to focus on public transport rather than new roads, Lim said: "I agree that we need to move people not cars. But we do not control public transport as it comes under the federal government."
He stressed however that the state government also plans to introduce transit corridors, including Light Rail Transit (LRT), along the proposed new traffic alignment.
Lim had on Monday told reporters in Kuala Lumpur that the projects, estimated to cost between RM5 billion and RM8 billion, would include a 6.5km sea tunnel connecting the island to the mainland, a 4.2km bypass from Gurney Drive to the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, a 4.6km bypass from the expressway to Bandar Baru Air Itam, and a dual carriageway from Jalan Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang.
Selected contractors from a pre-qualification exercise will be allowed to participate in a Request for Proposal (RFP) system for the study, design and implementation of the projects.
The study would include traffic studies and detailed environmental impact assessment, he stressed.
The contractors are also expected to take into account the LRT and give due consideration for the provision of transit facilities.
Costs incurred for the projects may be recovered through toll, land swap or any other form indicated by the applicant, he said.
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