$27 million of infrastructure projects a game changer for Proserpine

The Proserpine Main Street landscape will change dramatically with its $3.8 million upgrade being book-ended by construction of the $10 million Proserpine Administration Building and $10.9 million Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

In further good news for Proserpine, Stage 1 of the $3.1 million Lake Proserpine Recreational Master Plan will also commence with tenders for the design and construction of two new jetties going out recently.

Mayor Andrew Willcox said his Council had developed and adopted a Proserpine Masterplan in 2017 and was now delivering on its promise to roll out key infrastructure projects.

“Too many times Master Plans are drawn up and then sit dormant on a shelf and not activated but that is not the case with my Council,” he said.

“We are ensuring our Whitsunday Region’s infrastructure keeps pace with growth to support of three pillar economy of Tourism, mining and agriculture.”

Deputy Mayor and Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the jetties will be installed by December and is the first step in redeveloping Lake Proserpine.

“One of the jetties will be installed near the existing amenities block and picnic shelters to allow for boat parking and a fishing platform at the end of the jetty,” he said.

“The second jetty will be constructed for boat parking near the existing boat ramp to utilise while loading and unloading boats.

“In addition to the jetties it is anticipated that the current open space area near the amenities block will be opened for tent camping in September 2019 while the camping area further to the south of the boat ramp is being planned. “RV’s and self -contained campers will be able to utilise some of the parking bays and an area designated to the south of the ramp.”

Mayor Willcox said he was excited that the Proserpine Main Street upgrade would kick-off late September and be finished early next year after a 4 week break in December for Christmas trading.

“There has been plenty of forward planning completed for the upgrade to minimise interruption to Main Street traders and deliver the project on time and on budget.

“It is planned that much of the work will also be undertaken at night to minimise disruption.

“Upgrades include new entry signage at Blair St and the Main Street entry from the Bruce Highway, new landscaping to suit the constraints of the street with up lighting, improved and consistent footpaths, new kerb and guttering, pedestrian crossings, planter islands and coloured lighting to illuminate the water tower near the Council Depot.

“Accurate timelines for each works section will be advised once tenders are awarded and the successful contractor submits project timelines for completion,” Mayor Willcox said.

“Council will also engage with business owners in the Main Street after the tender is finalised to advise them of potential short-term disruptions and steps being undertaken to mitigate any other trading issues.”