‘Shovel ready’ funds boost

‘Shovel ready’ funds boost

More than $1.6m has been allocated to two major projects in the region as part of a “shovel ready” stimulus package.

State Treasurer Rob Lucas on Tuesday announced 57 projects to be funded via the Local Government Infrastructure Partnership Program – injecting $106.9m in stimulus, unlocking a further $118.5m in matching council investment and some Commonwealth funding.

Mount Gambier City Council’s Wandilo Road to Wireless Road West shared walk/cycle path extension and solar light installation project was allocated $800,000, while Grant District Council will receive $850,000 for the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards.

The saleyard transformation will incorporate a roof over the complex, together with the reconfiguration of pens and laneways beneath the roof area.

Roofing the complex will enable the installation of new soft flooring throughout, as well as the fitting of solar panels and cost-effective LED lighting.

The funding was welcomed by Grant Mayor Richard Sage.

“We are pleased the program supported the saleyards project which will hopefully enable us to leverage more funds to support council’s vision to deliver a once in a generation modernisation of the saleyards while supporting local investment in economic development infrastructure,” he said.

“We have had terrific support from local MPs Tony Pasin and Troy Bell as well as the Premier who came down and visited the facility, along with a suite of staff, agents and stakeholders who have all contributed to the master-plan which no doubt will drive this transformation moving forward.

“The Mount Gambier and District Saleyards is a shared regional asset that delivers benefit to communities far and wide.”

City council’s funding will enable it to establish a 2.09km extension to the existing path from Wandilo Road to the TAFE SA and UniSA campuses on Wireless Road West. In addition to the extension of the shared path, the project will include the installation of solar lights along the entire 11.3km length.

Council’s acting chief executive Barbara Cernovskis said council was pleased with the funding allocation.

“Council will match the State Government funding to install solar lights along the entire shared cycle/walking rail trail and complete the Wandilo Road to TAFE, Wireless Road West shared path project,” she said.

“The funds will enable council to enhance the existing rail trail and extend the network of shared paths in Mount Gambier. This will encourage further use of the shared path for the health and wellbeing of the community and reduce the use of vehicles within the city.”

Treasurer Lucas said the program “not only provides a huge shot in the arm for the state’s economy, it delivers exciting new developments and facilities upgrades that will transform and enhance communities right across South Australia”.

“This program is an immediate and targeted cash injection that will deliver long-lasting, tangible benefits for families and communities in every corner of the state,” he said.

Why wait? Get more stories like this delivered straight to your inbox
Join our digital edition mailing list and stay up to date on the latest news, events and special announcements from across the Limestone Coast.

Your local real estate guide - every Thursday

spot_img

You might also like