Changes are coming to Main Street in Merimbula. Photo: Google Maps.
Fresh funding will expand the Far South Coast’s active travel network.
Bega Valley Shire Council has received more than $1 million to help cover the cost of designing and building a 2.4 metre-wide shared pathway along Main Street in Merimbula.
Bega Valley Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick welcomed the announcement.
“This is a fantastic outcome for our community and helps council to revitalise Merimbula and create a more connected, vibrant and accessible place.
“Once complete locals and visitors can enjoy a beautiful walk or ride from the Merimbula CBD all the way along Lake Street.”
The project will connect key destinations, reduce pedestrian exposure to traffic and upgrade the existing shared path network.
It will run from Beach Street to Lake Street.
“This project would not be possible without the Federal Government’s generous funding contribution,” he said.
“Council can now deliver a much-needed missing link in our path network.”
The works will include installation of raised crossings, lighting and improved sightlines for users.
While the path is still to be designed, a council spokesperson said safety measures (such as traffic calming measures and improved lighting) are expected to be included.
The new pathway will also be constructed to withstand environmental stresses.
The spokesperson also said it would help to deliver on objectives raised in the Active Transport Strategy and support safer travel for pedestrians.
“In particular, it will create a key link between major hubs, connecting the Lake Street path through Rotary Park, Spencer Park and Merimbula Public School to Beach Street and the Merimbula CBD,” they told Region.
There are already shared paths present along sections of Beach Road, Lake Street, and the Merimbula Lake boardwalk, according to the strategy.
The new path will be worked on alongside a series of planned upgrades to the town’s CBD (being funded through a separate grant).
The project has been awarded $1.4 million through the Federal Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP).
“Council sought funding through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program because it provided the strongest strategic alignment with the project and was one of the few programs available to support community infrastructure such as shared paths,” the council’s spokesperson said.
Bega Valley Shire Council is contributing $358,000.
Minister for Regional Development and Local Government and Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said the project would improve road-related safety.
“I know how well-utilised our paths are between Beach Street on to Spencer Park, Rotary Park and beyond and this money will ensure better and safer options for pedestrians and cyclists along this well utilised route on Main Street.
“I understand regional councils need extra assistance to see these pathways improved for locals and tourists alike and I’m proud to be part of a government recognising the need for these upgrades and supporting them with funding.”
The SLRIP commenced on 1 July 2024 to provide funding for projects to address current and emerging priorities in road infrastructure needs.
At least $200 million per year is available under the program.
This project is part of a more than $86.2 million nationwide commitment under the latest tranche of the SLRIP program.
Of this, more than $77.6 million is earmarked for projects in regional Australia.
A timeline for the works will be locked in once the relevant funding deed has been received and formally executed, according to the council’s spokesperson.
