Community connectivity is at the heart of the 13 new local infrastructure projects set to take place across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has received $3.439 million in funding to deliver priority projects for the community as part of the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program.
A number of recreational facilities will be upgraded to keep us healthy and active, and to provide spaces to build social connections. Connections will also be improved with upgrades planned throughout our region's road network and pedestrian pathways.
The program is also designed to support jobs and help local economies bounce back from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with Council's across the country invited to put projects forward.
Mayor Peta Pinson welcomed the funding announcement, noting the benefits the funding brings to our community.
"Providing accessibility and facilities for all members of our community is a high priority for Council, and I'm delighted that this new program of works focuses on making us a more inclusive, healthy, and vibrant community.
"Our population is continuously growing, and we've seen more young working families move to our region in the last year. Having more jobs available, and improving our community spaces is so important for us to stay social and healthy, especially for young people" said Mayor Pinson.
Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the Federal Government announced the $500 million Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program in May 2020.
"The successful program received strong community and local government support and was extended," he said.
"This program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across the electorate.
"It supports jobs and helps build the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Councils are building and upgrading important community infrastructure that will provide a lasting benefit. This program also improves our regional roads, making them safer for all road users."
The projects to be delivered under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program are:
North Shore Improved Connections - North Shore $960,000
We will be engaging with the North Shore community to understand their priority for the funding allocation for either road rehabilitation or for pedestrian footpaths.
Kerb and Gutter Installations - Port Macquarie $550,000
The installation of new kerbs and gutters throughout selected Port Macquarie streets will improve drainage runoff and street amenity.
Beechwood Pedestrian Upgrades - Beechwood $480,000
A new footpath will be constructed along the northern side of Beechwood Road, between Bellangry Road and Kittyhawk Place.
Wayne Richards Park Bike Track Upgrade - Port Macquarie $350,000
Following damage due to rain, the bike pump track at Wayne Richards Park will be upgraded with the reshaping and resealing of the track.
Laurieton Sports Complex Upgrades - Laurieton $350,000
The planned upgrades to Laurieton Sports Complex include improved accessibility and new, gender neutral amenities.
Kendall Tennis Club Upgrade - Kendall $150,000
Kendall Tennis Club's growing membership will be catered for with the addition of a brand-new tennis court.
Council Carparks Resurfacing - Wauchope & Port Macquarie $150,000
The public Council carparks at Council's Port Macquarie and Wauchope locations will be rehabilitated and resurfaced.
Pioneer Park Upgrade - Comboyne $100,000
Pioneer Park will be treated to landscaping improvements, and other upgrades that are being defined through the development of our Community Strategic Plan.
Long Flat Recreation Grounds Upgrade - Long Flat $100,000
This important rural and community facility will receive an upgrade to the existing sports and recreational infrastructure,
Lake Cathie Community Reserve Basketball Court - Lake Cathie $70,000
Lake Cathie Community Reserve is continuing to cater for a growing young population, with the installation of a new basketball court.
Town Beach Reserve Basketball Court - Port Macquarie $70,000
The latest addition to the recreational facilities at Town Beach Reserve will be a new basketball court.
Bonny Hills Reserves Master Plan Improvements - Bonny Hills $59,640
Improvements to the Bonny Hills Reserves Master Plan will include landscaping upgrades to the viewing area.
Log Wharf Reserve Upgrade- Telegraph Point $50,000
Log Wharf Reserve Park upgrades will improve facilities for our community's use.
The 13 projects are funded by the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
