Fast-tracked footpath package steps towards completion

Western Downs Regional Council’s accelerated footpath program is in its final stages, with the fifth and final package of works kicking off this week.

The region-wide footpath program was fast-tracked under Council’s massive COVID-19 Recovery Package and was designed to generate jobs and boost connectivity across the region.

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Works and Technical Services Councillor George Moore said the package had delivered fantastic outcomes for the region’s economy.

“More than 180 local people have been contracted to deliver 21 individual footpath projects over the past 12 months which is a massive effort and achievement for our community,” Cr Moore said.

“We have seen new footpaths brought forward and constructed in several towns including Moonie, Dalby, Chinchilla, Miles, Meandarra, Bell, Kaimkillenbun and Jandowae.

“It’s absolutely fantastic to see our recovery package achieving exactly what it was designed to do, which was provide certainty during the pandemic and keep locals employed.

“These works are something that our community has been asking for so it’s also great to be able to deliver these projects to enhance the liveability of our towns.”

Three local contractors have been awarded work under the fast-tracked footpath program.

As part of the fifth and final package of works, Tara based company Connors Concreting has been selected to construct footpaths on Napier, Edward and Besley Streets in Dalby, and Chinchilla based company THS Concreting will deliver footpaths on Dawson Street in Miles.

Owner of Connor’s Concreting Shaun Connor said the stimulus provided a continued flow of work at a time when it was really needed.

“It has been great receiving work as part of Council’s stimulus package,” Mr Connor said.

“It’s great to see Council doing what it can to support our community and keep local employed.”

The final package of works is expected to be completed by the end of June 2021.

To find out more about Council’s COVID-19 Recovery Package visit https://www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/recovery/

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