First stage of Toowoomba Russell Street refresh nears completion

The Toowoomba Regional Council is hoping to have a major refresh of a CBD street completed by the start of next year, with the first stage just months from finishing.

Progress of Russell Street revamp as Toowoomba Regional Council undertakes work to revitalise the historic street. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The first stage in the major revitalisation of a Toowoomba CBD street will be completed within months, as council crews ramp up construction on the Russell Street urban renewal project.

The Toowoomba Regional Council allocated $2.5m in the latest budget towards the refresh, which will completely reshape the road between Victoria and Neil Streets.

The project will provide new pavement and footpaths, a tree-lined centre median, upgraded lighting and CCTV coverage, green space and street trees, public art and new street furniture.

Progress of Russell Street revamp as Toowoomba Regional Council undertakes work to revitalise the historic street. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Infrastructure chair Councillor Carol Taylor said the first stage should be finished by October, with the second stage to start in February next year.

“The Russell Street urban renewal project will revitalise the area to create a vibrant destination and help boost future economic development in our CBD,” she said.

“It will also provide a key connection to the emerging Railway Parklands precinct and Queens Park.”

Ms Taylor urged residents to support the small businesses currently affected by the works, which has blocked off half the road.

“Traffic and pedestrian detours are in place for the safety of pedestrians, motorists and construction workers with access to all business maintained,” she said.