Footpath renewal and construction is underway across the Shire, with Council investing $1.185 million in footpaths and cycleways as part of the 2024/2025 budget.
The budget includes $500,000 for the Footpath Renewal Program, which focuses on renewing existing footpaths to ensure they remain safe and functional. It involves repairing or replacing aging infrastructure that is already in place.
The budget also includes $685,000 for the Missing Links Program, which is aimed at identifying key connections and constructing new footpaths in areas where they are currently missing, thus improving connectivity and accessibility across the Shire.
Recent footpath projects completed as part of Council's ongoing commitment to improving local infrastructure includes the renewal of the footpath along Tarcombe Road, Seymour, between Abdallah Road and the Tarcombe Road railway crossing.
Additionally, upgrades were completed to a footpath on Pinniger Street, Broadford, between Ferguson Street and Hawdon Street.
Some key projects that will be getting underway this financial year include:
- Allen Street, Kilmore between Sutherland Street and White Street
- Sutherland Street, Kilmore between Rutledge Street and Allen Street
- Bishop Street, Seymour between Wallis Street and Elizabeth Street, Seymour
- Rail Street, Wandong between Dry Creek Crescent and Affleck Street
- Main Street service road, Tallarook between Lodge Street and the Great Victorian Rail Trail
- Intersection of Emily Street and Manners Street, Seymour
In addition to these projects, the upcoming $3 million upgrade of Wellington Street and $2.7 million upgrade of Darraweit Road in Wallan also include construction of new footpaths to improve connectivity.
Both of these projects were made possible thanks to the generous support of the Federal Government and Member for McEwan Rob Mitchell.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Councillor Louise Bannister expressed the importance of investment in these projects.
"As our community grows, it's vital we continue to improve our infrastructure, making our towns more walkable and accessible," she said.
"Feedback from our community consistently highlights the importance of footpaths for people of all ages and abilities to move around our Shire and access the many great things it offers.
"These projects are a key part of our commitment to enhancing liveability across the Shire.
"While our teams are out regularly inspecting footpaths, we encourage the community to let us know if there is an area that needs attention. You can do this by calling us or filling out an online form."
To report urgent issues to Council, residents should call 5734 6200. Non-urgent issues can be reported via Council's online "Report It" tool.
Additionally, Council welcomes community input on future projects through the "Suggest a project" page.
