Plans to continue Capricorn Coast Pineapple Rail Trail underway
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Plans to further the Capricorn Coast Pineapple Rail Trail may become a reality in the near future after Council was successful in obtaining funding to deliver a planning project for the continuation of the trail.
Funding was awarded through the Queensland Government's new $14 million Rail Trail Local Government Grants program.
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said the council was awarded the funding after submitting a successful expression of interest.
“Rail trails support active, healthy lifestyles, allow for the innovative use of disused state-owned infrastructure, and contribute to environmental preservation and management,” Mrs Lauga said.
“We made an election commitment to support rail trail development and we are delivering on that promise. That’s why we have allocated $14 million over the next four years to help local councils plan for walking, bike riding and horse-riding trails on disused rail corridors.’’
Mayor Bill Ludwig said this was fantastic news for not only recreational users of the trail, but the wider community, after receiving $225,354 in funding from the Queensland Government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads.
“The continued development of the Pineapple Rail Trail is planned to extend along the decommissioned rail corridor from Yeppoon to Mount Chalmers, which is approximately 21.3km,” Cr Ludwig said.
“The planning project will see detailed design and construction planning completed, along with costings and feasibility considerations for the rail trail from its current location.
“Council would like to sincerely thank the Queensland Government for their support towards the feasibility study to provide more opportunities for residents to engage in active recreation through cycling, jogging, and other events and activities.”
Parks and Open Spaces Councillor Tom Wyatt said understanding the numerous benefits which the development of the Pineapple Rail Trail will provide; the Livingstone community continues to voice its strong support for this project.
“Council is keen to bring this project to our local community to realise the positive social, economic and tourism outcomes which will be delivered through the extended development of the Pineapple Rail Trail,” Cr Wyatt said.