More than $3.2 million has been awarded across seven projects under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program Phase 2 to assist Council to deliver improved community infrastructure and support local jobs.
Mayor Louise Crawford said the funding, part of the Australian Government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is a win for the community as the upgrades will improve accessibility and amenity, while supporting local jobs.
"The funding will help us improve safety, access and amenity throughout our City. Road safety improvements, upgrades to play areas, ovals and bike paths, and additional seating at South Melbourne Market are all projects which will benefit our residents," Cr Crawford said.
Federal Member for Macnamara Josh Burns said: "I commend the City of Port Phillip for securing this vital funding for our local community and I look forward to working with them to ensure the best outcomes for our local residents, families and businesses."
Projects funded by the program are:
- Road safety and Water Sensitive Urban Design projects at the intersection of Cecil Street and Napier Street, South Melbourne, Nimmo Street and Beaconsfield Parade, Port Melbourne, and McGregor and Patterson Streets, Middle Park, will increase safety for more vulnerable users by reducing vehicle speeds and creating safer crossing locations, contribute towards achieving Council's pollutant reduction targets, and deliver greening and urban heat island reduction benefits by de-paving unnecessary asphalt surfaces
- The upgrade of Wattie Watson Oval Reconstruction (partly funded using $380,000 from the LRCI Program) in Elwood will ensure the playing surface meets relevant standards and reduce the risk of injury as well as facilitating greater community participation in sport, particularly for female athletes
- Improved play space at Point Ormond Regional Playspace and Precinct will ensure playground equipment meets all relevant Australian standards, while the improved pedestrian connectivity between the Point Ormond play space, Ormond Hill lookout and adjacent service road will result in a safer experience for users
- Garden City Bike Path upgrade (partly funded using $443,000 from the LRCI Program) will connect the Garden City Bike Path to the Sandridge Bike Path
- An undercover courtyard at South Melbourne Market will improve the external seating area of the Food Hall, increasing the number of customers able to sit and enjoy the Market offerings in all weather conditions.
Construction is expected to begin in coming months.
