A SECTION of the Hervey Bay rail trail is getting a facelift.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour said a new asphalt surface will be laid along the trail between Hunter and Elizabeth streets.
The first part of the project, to repair concrete footpaths and kerb crossings, was completed just before Christmas.
Council received $1.35-million as part of the State Government’s Works for Queensland COVID-19 program to undertake the refurbishment.
NOW READ: Proposed cycling event could see Fraser Coast win big
Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari welcomed the upgrades.
“I’m excited to see that these upgrades are underway,” Mr Tantari said.
“The project is helping drive Queensland’s economic recovery, with local jobs being supported throughout the construction phase. Once completed, the upgraded section will encourage more locals and tourists to take advantage of this trail, making it easier to ride or walk and encouraging more people to get out and get active.”
Council said the $417,000 stage two (asphalt) was awarded to Colas while the $155,000 project to repair the footpath and kerb crossing was awarded to CMC.
ALSO READ: Buy local campaign going strong
The next stage of the refurbishment program will include an upgrade of the lights along the trail. It’s understood a contractor to undertake the lighting project will be appointed soon.
“The rail trail is very popular,” Cr Seymour said.
“It runs from one end of the city to the other, providing a safe route for walkers, runners, cyclists, people using mobility scooter and students going to school.”
ALSO READ: WetSide Waterpark upgrades underway
The work, which started on Monday, is expected to take five days to complete – weather permitting.