New train lines and freeways, an inner-city subway and more bridges across the river - including several specifically for bikes - are part of the Barnett Government's long-awaited transport plan that was released today (July 29), as reported in The Western Australia news.

The plan is designed to prepare Perth for a population of 3.5 million people, which is expected around 2050.

It does not include the controversial MAX light-rail proposal from Mirrabooka to the CBD but does have a light-rail service - previously described as the Knowledge Arc - that links the University of WA and QEII and Canning Bridge, via the CBD and Curtin University.

And a rail link to Ellenbrook is canvassed in the plan for "beyond 3.5 million people” but, unlike other previous proposals, involves a spur line to Marshall Road in Malaga.

Marshall Road is part of a proposed rail line between the city and the northern suburbs. The first stage will involve a tunnel from the CBD, with the second stage linking it to the Joondalup line.

The plan proposes two significant new river crossings, one that will link Stock Road to Stephenson Avenue and the other that involves a tunnel under Perth Water that connects the Causeway to the Narrows interchange.

This would allow Riverside Drive to be closed.

And the plan also involves "green bridges” for cyclists and pedestrians, including one that connects Chidley Point, Point Walter and Point Resolution.

The city subway is another long-term proposal. It will connect the CBD with East Perth, West Perth, Northbridge and Leederville with a high-capacity, high-frequency service.

The new road proposals include a highway that links Tonkin Highway to the Mitchell Freeway and another that links Kwinana Freeway near Rockingham with Stock Road.

The plan does not include specific costings.

Mr Nalder said the existing transport network would require fundamental changes to support a population of 3.5 million people, resulting in improved connectivity with activity centres where people live, work and play and expanded public transport and cycling networks connecting people to where they want to go.

"Improved road and freight networks, tunnels and river crossings will play a part in our future network, keeping the city vibrant, connected and productive" Transport Minister Dean Nalder said.

"Aside from new infrastructure and expanded services, network efficiency measures and strategies to influence travel choices will make sure we get maximum value out of the transport system.

"With the cost of congestion in Perth currently estimated at $2 billion a year, the Liberal National Government has developed a comprehensive and smart plan that will keep Perth and our economy moving.

"This plan draws from expertise within the State's transport agencies, universities, recent research and global knowledge.

"While this is a plan prepared by transport planning experts, everyone has a right to have a say on what we aspire our city to look like. The State Government will be consulting with local governments, industry and the community during the next three months.”