Horsham people will be able to better enjoy the Wimmera River after dark next year when new lights are installed on walking and cycling tracks between Menadue Street and the Anzac Bridge.
Horsham Rural City Council (HRCC) successfully applied for $173,000 in funding from the Victorian Government’s Public Safety Infrastructure Fund.
HRCC will contribute $90,464 from its own budget and works to install the overhead LED lighting will start in early 2020.
Director Infrastructure John Martin said the Safe River Linkages Project would enhance the perceived and actual safety for users of key linkages along the river in central Horsham.
“The project’s funding is good news because activating the Wimmera River foreshore through central Horsham is a priority for Council,” Mr Martin said.
“Many Horsham people use these paths during daylight hours and the new lighting will give people reassurance to use the area when it’s dark.
Mr Martin said landscaping improvements would also be included in the project.
“Removal of low to mid-height shrubs along particular sections of the track will also improve visibility and enhance people’s perception of feeling safe,” he said.
“Wimmera River Improvement Committee is a key stakeholder and will be involved in the landscaping works.”
The project has also received support from other local groups such as Horsham Bicycle Advisory Committee, Horsham Parkrun group, Horsham Running Group and Horsham Saints Football Netball Club.
“We have just this year finished the Racecourse Reserve lighting upgrades and will use the same project management framework to deliver the Safe River Linkages Project,” Mr Martin said.
PROJECT DETAILS:
- Lighting on the river path at the corner of Menadue and Hamilton Streets
- Lighting from Selkirk Drive through to Wotonga Drive
- Pathway lighting on the south bank of the river, east and west from bridge at Stawell Rd
