The Maryborough CBD will undergo a makeover to bring more jobs and dollars into the city, off the back of funding through Round 4 of the Palaszczuk Government’s successful $295 million Building our Regions (BoR) program.
The $2,494,494 Maryborough CBD Revitalisation project is receiving $921,960 from BoR, with Fraser Coast Regional Council contributing $1,572,534.
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the upgrade will breathe new life into the city centre and deliver more jobs and economic activity to Maryborough.
“These works will reinvigorate the heart of Maryborough to attract increased spending and investment in this charming part of our state,” Mr Dick said.
“The project will upgrade a section of Kent Street, improve critical infrastructure to the CBD, including better footpaths and paving, and feature cultural and heritage displays and public artworks.
“This area services businesses, council offices, specialty retailing and tourism – all pivotal to Maryborough’s economy and appeal.
“The upgrade will create around eight jobs during construction and generate more job opportunities in the long-term.”
Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said the project is about making the city more attractive for residents, visitors and businesses.
“It’s crucial we draw local crowds back to the CBD and tap into tourist markets like ‘grey nomads’, who use council’s nearby ‘Stop and Shop’ RV bays,” Mr Saunders said.
“Fraser Coast Regional Council has worked closely with the community to develop this CBD revitalisation plan and should be commended for their efforts to get this work moving.
“A promising proposal has also been made to link owners of vacant premises with entrepreneurs and artists.
“This will allow emerging creatives in the region to trial a start-up business or a low-cost space to display and sell their products.”
Previous revitalisation works garnered international attention with the installation of Mary Poppins-themed traffic lights, in honour of the author PL Traverswho was born in Maryborough.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour said this latest upgrade would reactivate the city centre.
“Thanks to funding assistance from the state government, the revitalisation to the CBD will encourage people to explore Maryborough’s historic heart again,” Mr Seymour said.
“Upgrading vital elements such as footpaths and shopfronts ensures our city centre makes a good first impression, which we hope motivates people to spend more time in our region.”
Round 4 of Building our Regions will see the Palaszczuk Government partner with 37 councils on 49 projects – work which will create an estimated 657 jobs.
Fraser Coast Regional Council’s other Round 4 project is River Heads Carpark and Boat Ramp Upgrade, with Building our Regions contributing $497,094 and council $1,092,094.
Under previous rounds, the program has allocated $225 million to 174 critical infrastructure projects across the state, generating 1762 jobs and attracting additional investment of $353.5 million from councils and other organisations.
Through the first three rounds of BoR, Fraser Coast Regional Council received $5,413,510 for four projects, supporting around 34 jobs.
Learn more about the Building our Regions program.
