The $1.5 million stage two of Hobart's New Town Retail Precinct Upgrade has been launched after a nearly three-year delay caused by the impacts of COVID-19.
In 2020, stage one of the New Town precinct upgrade was completed with new pedestrian crossings, garden beds, benches and bike racks installed along New Town Road.
The second stage of the New Town Retail Precinct Upgrade will see local public transport improved with a new, high-quality public bus shelter and a pocket park with green space and seating in front of the Salvation Army complex.
The project will also create a space that opens up new possibilities for local communities and businesses through pop-up events, markets and other activities.
The City of Hobart and Tasmanian construction firm MSD Civil Services will work closely with local businesses and residents to limit any potential impacts on trade and the day-to-day lives of locals during the construction phase.
The City is also co-ordinating a range of business support and information services through its newly established City Economy Unit, which will help promote and support New Town businesses during the project through the Hello Hobart website.
The website is designed to connect people with local businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, services and shops.
The City will also work with the local community to stage a celebration of the precinct once work on the Roope Street intersection is completed in late spring/early summer this year.
Stage two of the project has been made possible through the support of the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which will fund the majority of the upgrade works.
Additional support has been provided through the Vulnerable Road User Program (VRUP), co-funded by the Australian Government and Tasmanian Government under the Australian Government's $3 billion Road Safety Program.
The City has secured well respected Tasmanian construction firm MSD Civil Services for the project.
