The Hunter Sports Centre expansion, replacement of bridges in Martinsville and reconstruction of Awaba House at Booragul are among the projects given the green light in Lake Macquarie City Council’s $118.8 million capital works spend.
Other priorities outlined in the cash splash include spending $8.1 million on cycling facilities and a further $5.7 million on footpaths and pedestrian improvements.
The plan also outlines $22.8 million in spending on road resealing and $7.4 million on traffic and transport upgrades.
The 2023-2024 Operational Plan was adopted after this week’s council meeting.
And, it outlines spending over the next 12 months.
Lake Macquarie City mayor Kay Fraser said council reportedly received more than 100 submissions during the draft plan’s public exhibition – a record for a mid-cycle Operational Plan.
“Key themes emerging from those submissions included a desire for us to upgrade local roads, improve traffic facilities like roundabouts and intersections, and increase spending on shared pathways and other pedestrian infrastructure,” she said.
“I’m pleased that these broadly reflect our focus of spending over the coming financial year.”
The list of roads that will receive attention includes:
- Intersection improvements at Alton Road, University Drive and Freemans Drive, Cooranbong.
- Underpass lights at Fassifern Road, Fassifern.
- Road rehabilitation on Harper Avenue, Edgeworth.
- Intersection upgrades on Myall Road, Garden Suburb.
- Road rehabilitation on Floraville Road, Belmont North and Piriwal Street, Pelican.
Cr Fraser said the Operational Plan presented a fully funded total budget of $351.3 million, with an operating surplus of $1.35 million, which aligned with council’s long-term financial plan.
“This is the first time in five years we’ve forecast an operating result surplus, which is exceptional given the challenging economic circumstances,” she said.
“This year’s plan provides almost $120 million worth of new and replacement infrastructure. We are a growing city and it’s important we keep up with this growth to meet community needs and expectations.”
For more related stories:
- March 2023 – Council outlines $113m capital spend 2023/24
- Feb 2023: Hunter Sports Centre estimated to cost $42 million
- Oct 2021: Federal Government chips in $10 million for Hunter Sports Centre
- Aug 2020: Plans for Awaba House revealed
- March 2020: Awaba House reimagined
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