Stage two of Echuca's riverfront redevelopment is underway with a civil contractor selected by Campaspe Shire Council to start works immediately.
Mayor, Cr Adrian Weston said local civil contracting company Marc Quarrell Excavations, was awarded the contract at the 16 July council meeting.
"It is an exciting time, with the site set to be transformed into a space that reflects the Port Precinct Vision 'a place to take your time, relax and enjoy yourself'," Cr Weston said.
Stage two works are due to finish in early 2020 and will include:
- a new sealed roadway into the site for short term drop off, pickup and boat servicing parking
- construction of accessible footpaths throughout the site
- landscaping including grass areas, mulch under trees, gravel plaza area and tree plantings
- configuration of car and bus parking along the Watson Street frontage
"As the whole Riverboat Dock area is now under construction, the site will be fenced off and closed to the public," Cr Weston said.
"With the agreement of the contractor, the Murray River Paddlesteamer fleet will initially operate from its current location, with passengers to be escorted safely to the boats by staff."
"Relocation of pontoons and gangways for houseboat operators and the MV Mary Ann has already taken place."
"Stage one of the project has seen a complete overhaul of the kiosk. It will feature a café on the top deck boasting an unbeatable view of the river-based precinct and the ground level will continue to provide storage for local boat operators."
The $5 million project has been jointly funded with the federal government contributing $2.6 million, state government $1.3 million and council $1 million.
"By early next year we will have a redeveloped riverfront, an area to enjoy the natural surroundings of the river, while supporting access to commercial houseboats and paddlesteamers, and providing universal access across the riverfront and precinct," Cr Weston said.
