6 June 2022
A $6 million project to stimulate economic activity in Miles has been completed, with a major revitalisation of the CBD offering more opportunities to meet, shop, and stay longer in the region.
The project was delivered as part of Western Downs Regional Council's COVID-19 Recovery Package to secure and create jobs, in partnership with the Australian Government's $3 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program. Council received $3.2 million of the $6 million project cost under the LRCI Program.
Mayor Paul McVeigh said the Miles CBD Streetscape project breathed new life into the area, creating a vibrant, exciting place for residents and visitors to explore.
"The Western Downs is a vibrant, inclusive community and this project is about generating pride and boosting economic activity in the beautiful town of Miles," Cr McVeigh said.
"The upgrade has delivered several improvements to the strip including a village feel which is RV friendly with feature lighting, colourful landscaping, street tables and stools, outdoor dining opportunities, public art, and improved pedestrian linkages.
"What makes this project extra special is the way it celebrates the story of Miles, with the community working alongside Council to create a design that pays tribute to the area's unique history and the people that make it.
"The street now also features an interactive 'sound trail' which tells the story of people, places, and industries in Miles and encourages people to follow the trail and explore the town by foot.
"To mark the completion of the project, Council will be partnering with local businesses and community groups to host a community celebration on Saturday 2 July, and we're looking forward to revealing more about our plans very soon.
"I encourage everyone in the region to pencil that date into the calendar and keep an eye out for more news about this exciting event in coming weeks."
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud congratulated the Council on completion of the Miles CBD revitalisation project.
"The aim of LRCI funding is to strengthen communities by providing a vital economic boost and delivering lasting upgrades that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come," Mr Littleproud said.
"With the challenges presented by COVID-19, bushfires, floods and other events, the past couple of years have been tough for communities, businesses and local councils, which is why we moved quickly to approve funding for LRCI projects, paving the way for shovels to hit the dirt to make them a reality.
"The Miles community wins with greater liveability, a more appealing business district, improved safety for road users and pedestrians, and street art celebrating the importance and history of Miles."
Mr Littleproud said newly increased funding of $500 million for the extension to Phase 3 will flow through the LRCI Program to local councils across Australia, building on the $1.7 billion already approved to deliver more than 7,400 projects nationwide under the first three phases of the program.
