Posted on June 30, 2016
The City of Greater Geraldton’s total budget of $137million will include a record $78million infrastructure spend aimed at boosting our local economy and delivering a number of long overdue key projects.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said this was the best outcome for the community.
‘We know there has been a flow on effect from the downturn in the resources sector and our local economy has taken a hit but this investment from the City will help to rebuild that,’ he said.
‘The Council is committed to ensuring that businesses and residents within our community benefit from this record capital expenditure.’
With an ever growing backlog of decaying infrastructure, there is a big emphasis on asset renewal.
‘We will change for the better the way we address our ageing infrastructure which is the legacy of previous councils,’ Mayor Van Styn said.
‘This isn’t the last council or even the council before that, this is an accumulative effect of ignoring the investment in infrastructure that needs to be renewed.
‘We have cut operating costs which means we can put more money into our community assets and the City will continue to invest in local infrastructure to ensure it is in top notch condition for our community to use and enjoy,’ he added.
‘Council has worked extremely hard to ensure that rate increases are kept low whilst also ensuring we can continue to give back to our community and our economy as a result of the efficiencies identified in this year’s budget.’
Works to combat erosion have been heavily catered for in the budget, subject to funding, with over $23million for erosion works.
The runway at the Geraldton Airport is also set to get a $23million upgrade with the project subject to funding. If funds are secured, the existing 1981m long runway will be extended to 2400m.
Key projects include:
Beresford Foreshore
Subject to funding, close to $23million will be spent on two stages of the Beresford Foreshore. Stage one will focus on a coastal protection project to help prevent further erosion in the area and to protect existing assets. Stage two will introduce community focused amenities to enhance the area.
St George Beach Stabilisation
A coastal protection project will be implemented to prevent any further erosion and loss of amenities at St Georges Beach.
Renewals for flood damaged roads
A total of $3.5million will be spent to renew flood damaged roads in Mullewa.
Durlacher Street Underground PowerPower poles on the intersection of Durlacher Street/Chapman Road and in the vicinity are set be removed with the addition of underground power.
Derna Park ToiletsDerna Park in Wandina will receive a public toilet facility.
Animal Management Facility
The construction of a new Animal Management Facility will cater for the growing needs of the City’s Ranger Services. The facility will also cater for cats and have a Veterinary Centre.
Road Flood Recovery ProjectsA total of 24 roads in the Midwest will undergo storm damage repair works.
Airport Runway UpgradeRenewal and upgrade of the existing 1981 x 45m runway as well as related taxiways and aprons is subject to funding. The runway will extend to a length to 2400m.
Olive Street
Over $4million will be spent on remedial works will take place on the existing site and develop the area in to a usable and community focused public open space.
Renewal Spend
A total $22.2million will be spent on infrastructure renewals.
Source: Public
