TRC starting Russell Street Refresh project second stage

The second and final stage of a major upgrade to revitalise one of Toowoomba’s oldest and most iconic streets is starting on Monday. (February 14, 2022).

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Infrastructure Services Committee chair Cr Carol Taylor said the project aimed to inject life into Russell Street and help boost future economic development in the CBD.

“The community is already seeing the benefits of the first stage of work completed between Victoria and Ruthven streets in 2021,” Cr Taylor said.

“The second stage, Ruthven to Neil streets, will provide new pavement and footpaths, lighting and CCTV, entry and exit thresholds, pedestrian crossing points, green space, public art and street furniture.

“The project will also upgrade stormwater, water main and communications infrastructure and move powerlines underground.

“Council is proud to continue work on upgrading a street that is steeped in the city’s history, especially given the transformation of the CBD.

“The second stage is expected to be completed by November 2022, weather permitting.”

Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles said the Queensland Government had invested $2 million to deliver the project through the government’s successful SEQ Community Stimulus Program.

“The SEQ Community Stimulus Program aims to fund projects that will make a positive impact on communities,” Mr Miles said.

“There’s no doubt projects like the Russell Street revitalisation will produce enormous benefits by creating employment opportunities and improving liveability across the Region.

“Investing in infrastructure that will improve communities and create local jobs is part of the Queensland Government’s Economic Recovery Plan.”

TRC Planning and Development Committee chair Cr Megan O’Hara Sullivan said delivery of the project was a key outcome of the Toowoomba City Centre Master Plan.

“This project will help transform one of the city’s oldest and most iconic streets into a vibrant people-friendly destination,” Cr O’Hara Sullivan said.

“The upgrade will help boost future economic development in our CBD and provide a key connection to the emerging Railway Parklands precinct and Queens Park.”

Cr Taylor said Russell Street businesses would remain open during construction and access to shops would be maintained during business hours.

“Council encourages the community to support local businesses during construction,” Cr Taylor said.

“Construction will start on the northern side of Russell Street from Ruthven to Neil streets this month.

“Single lane closures, detours, traffic controllers and signage will be in place for the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and construction workers.

“Free, time-limited, one-hour parking will be in place in Russell Street between Ruthven and Neil streets during construction.”

Road users may experience minor delays during these works and are encouraged to plan trips, drive to the changed traffic conditions and follow all signage.

Council will make every effort to minimise construction impacts and thanks the community for their patience and co-operation during these works.

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program in association with Toowoomba Regional Council.

For more information on the Russell Street Refresh Project, visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/russellstreetrefresh call Council on 131 872 or email [email protected]