Mackay Harbour to connect to city via new pathway

Council will build an additional 2.6 kilometres of shared path and boardwalk from Vines Creek Bridge on Harbour Road along to Ron Searle Drive.

The pathway will include four crossings and is expected to be finished by late March 2020, weather permitting.

The path will also consist of concrete and elevated composite fibre boardwalks in areas where mangrove habitats need to be protected.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the project would provide a continuous, shared bike and pedestrian path from the Mackay Harbour into the City Centre, connecting to the existing Bluewater Trail.

“Crossover points will also be provided to ensure users can safely connect to the other side of Harbour Road,” Cr Williamson said.

“This upgrade will better connect our city for pedestrians and bike riders and works are expected to start mid-September, weather permitting,” he said.

“Reduced speeds and traffic management will be in place during the works and we ask the community to follow signs and directions from traffic controllers to ensure we can deliver these works safely and efficiently.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Palaszczuk Government was proud to contribute $2.5 million towards the jointly-funded project.

“Projects like this encourage more people to ride their bike and deliver $5 in economic return for the region for every dollar invested,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“I’m pleased to see council committing to delivering safer facilities for bike riders like this off-road path.

“Our funding is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $1.3 billion, four-year roads and transport program for the region, which will create more than 1,000 jobs.”

For more information on the project, contact Mackay Regional Council on 1300 622 529.

To find out about the Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program, visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Travel-and-transport/Cycling/Cycling-infrastructure-grants.aspx