ACT stimulus package fast-tracks infrastructure projects

The Act Government is fast-tracking critical infrastructure and maintenance projects as part of the state government’s COVID-19 economic stimulus package.

City Services Minister Chris Steel said fast-tracked projects would help local construction businesses keep more Canberrans employed, while renewing local infrastructure across the city.

“The program has focused on ‘screwdriver’ ready works that can start immediately, so that local businesses can keep workers employed now, with works scheduled to be completed by 30 June 2020,” he said.

“While our primary aim is to support jobs, we are taking this opportunity to bring forward projects which deliver much needed upgrades and maintenance to public spaces and community facilities.”

Projects include close to $9.75 million in works to upgrade and build new footpaths, improve road safety, upgrade transport facilities and undertake landscaping in open spaces.

“Path and crossing improvements have been requested by members of the community or have been identified as missing links in our shared path network, that will help to encourage walking and cycling,” Mr. Steel said.

“The government will also be funding work to repair pavers, undertake mulching around trees and garden beds and refreshing shade structures and seating in open spaces.”

According to Mr. Steel, the state government is also investing in recycled content infrastructure products, installing bollards made of recycled plastic bags throughout Canberra.

Further funding for infrastructure projects will announced in coming weeks.

“Importantly, the government is also getting on with delivering [its] existing infrastructure program, with construction work underway on projects like the Tuggeranong Laneways project and the Belconnen Bikeway,” Mr. Steel said.