Additional infrastructure funding supports Blue Mountains economic recovery

As New South Wales prepares to reopen under the National Plan, fourteen projects in the Blue Mountains, worth over $2.6 million, have been approved by the Morrison Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program.

Phase 2 of the federal government’s infrastructure package provides funding for a wide-range of small-scale projects, including road resealments, the upgrade and renewal of off road car parks and select drainage upgrades, among others.

Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the new funding would further bolster the Blue Mountains’ economic recovery.

“We know that investing in infrastructure creates an economic ripple effect across the local economy, and this latest funding package will support over 100 jobs,” Senator Payne said.

“Every job engaged through Phase 2 is another example of how the Morrison Government is delivering on-the-ground support for the Blue Mountains.

“Phase 3 of the Program will commence from 1 Janurary 2022, cementing our local infrastructure and jobs pipeline, and I look forward to continuing to work with Council to deliver this third tranche.”

Several projects funded under the Program prioritise the safe and efficient movement of people on new or upgraded footpaths, bicycle links and roads. Senator Payne said these projects encourage active and healthy living, allowing more residents to enjoy the Mountains’ bushland.

“We know that residents care deeply about the condition of public assets around their local parks, schools and walking tracks, which is why I am pleased to deliver funding for their improvement,” Senator Payne said.

“In this round alone, over $229,000 has been secured to provide a new bicycle and walking link for Ellison Public School in Springwood, and over $220,000 will be provided to improve street lighting equipment on Old Bathurst Road, an area of particular concern for motorists.”

Ward 1 Liberal Councillor and Chair of the Mayoral Reference Group advising Council on matters affecting businesses, Kevin Schreiber, welcomed the injection of funds into the local area.

“It’s great to see further federal funds hit the ground in the upper Mountains so that Council can deliver these infrastructure projects,” Cr Schreiber said.

“In particular, I welcome the new accessible parking that will be provided on Leichhardt Street near Blackheath Public School as this will enhance students’ safety."

Ward 4 Liberal Councillor Brendan Christie said improving local roads was a shared priority for both Council and the federal government.

“Old Bathurst Road is pitch black at night and the new and upgraded lighting is both much needed and well overdue, while the improved and replaced speed cushions and wombat crossing along Service Road will greatly improve pedestrian safety for our residents,” Cr Christie said.

Under Phase 1 of the LRCI Program, Blue Mountains City Council received over $869,000 in federal funding for the replacement of unit pavers and the renewal of kerbs and driveways in Katoomba’s town centre. Projects funded under the LRCI Progam are nominated by Council, which is the proponent for each project.

Phase 2 LRCI projects: