Work is nearing completion on an important project to re-green the CBD, which is supporting 25 local jobs.
Approximately 150 trees are being planted throughout the city, along footpaths and median strips, as part of the CBD Street Trees project.
Work also includes installing upgraded irrigation systems throughout several city streets and repairing planter beds.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the Council was committed to delivering projects that improve the CBD.
“Shade is very important in our climate and as these trees grow, they will make a huge difference to our CBD,” Cr Hill said.
“Council is upgrading its infrastructure in the CBD – such as building new footpaths, fixing the underground sewer network and planting trees – to make our inner city a better place to work, shop or stay.”
The project is supporting 25 local jobs – through the lead contractor JMac Constructions – and it was allocated $1.45 million in funding from the Palaszczuk Government’s Works for Queensland program.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the Palaszczuk Government was partnering with the Townsville City Council through the Works for Queensland program to make the CBD a greener and more attractive place.
“This is an important project because it will greatly improve the atmosphere in the CBD and it is supporting 25 local jobs,” he said.
“The Works for Queensland program allows Council to deliver projects that help build a better community while ensuring job opportunities are provided for locals.”
Infrastructure Committee Chair Cr Mark Molachino said the project is providing a boost to the CBD and supporting dozens of local jobs.
“Work has almost finished on this project and it has been great to watch the crews completing a job that will have such a positive impact on the CBD,” Cr Molachino said.
“Importantly, this work is supporting 25 local jobs and helped to enhance our CBD now and for many years into the future.”
Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said increasing shade in the CBD would provide major benefits to locals and visitors.
“Walker Street, Wills Street, Sturt Street, Stanley Street and Stokes Street have all had new trees planted or irrigation upgrades as part of the project,” Cr Greaney said.
“I’d also like to thank city traders, shoppers and workers for their patience during this project because any minor disruptions will be worth it.”
Work is expected to be complete in late May.
