Toowoomba Regional Council reveals projects have started in $50m COVID-19 stimulus program
The first projects have started in the Toowoomba Regional Council’s Pandemic Response Investment program, with almost $3.2 million spent up to the end of September.
Council
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The $50 million stimulus program, announced with the budget back in June, includes 64 projects that will be carried out by local contractors in a bid to stimulate business.
Finance and business strategy committee chair Cr Geoff McDonald said the council was focused on getting all 64 projects under way.
“When setting the budget earlier this year, our primary goal was always to get the projects started this financial year, not necessarily completed, and I’m pleased that we’re on track to do this,” he said.
“While it may not look like a lot of money has been spent so far, this is not unusual as the majority of work to date has been for the planning stages of these projects.
“With a lot of the planning now in place, I expect the local spend to pick up over the coming months.”
Cr McDonald said one project drawing closer was the Nell E Robinson Park amenities upgrade.
“Tenders for the upgrade closed earlier this month with the successful applicant expected to be named in the coming weeks,” he said.
“Another project progressing well is the regional asphalt overlay program.
“About $2.5 million has been spent so far as part of the ongoing program of renewing asphalt surfaces across the existing road network throughout the Toowoomba region.
“This is an important project which not only benefits residents throughout the Region, but it also provides opportunities for local suppliers.”
Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd Rohl said it was great to see projects up and running.
“We welcome the progress and ongoing commitment of the Toowoomba Regional Council on the investment program,” he said.
“Bringing forward these projects, over and above the planned capital works program, with a focus on using local businesses, is a win for the Toowoomba business community.
“This means more opportunities for small businesses, secures local jobs for the Toowoomba community, with the likely result of more money being reinvested in other parts of the local economy.”
For a full list of the projects listed in the $50 million pandemic response Investment program visit www.tr.qld.gov.au or contact the council on 131 872.