The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Infrastructure Committee has recommended that Council endorse the Russell Street Streetscape Refresh Concept Design to allow the project to progress to detailed design.
TRC Infrastructure Committee Chair Cr Carol Taylor said Russell Street is an iconic Toowoomba destination with a key role to play in the implementation of the City Centre Master Plan.
“The feedback from the community highlights the importance of maintaining and celebrating the street’s heritage and unique character,” Cr Taylor said.
“The Russell Street Streetscape Refresh aims to transform the precinct between Victoria and Neil Streets into a vibrant, people-friendly destination that enhances the unique character of the area and provides an engaging and inclusive environment that will support business and community growth.
“The concept design proposes revitalising the street by upgrading footpaths, lighting, installing new street furniture, trees and artwork”
“Approval of the final concept design will provide an opportunity to reconnect Russell Street to the upgraded north section of Ruthven Street, the emerging Railway Parklands precinct and Queens Park.
“The design also presents an opportunity to capitalise on changes to the way people travel along Russell Street, encouraging greater use of the Outer Circulating Road (OCR) and providing a safer and more activate space for pedestrians and cyclists.
“The draft streetscape plan has been developed in consultation with Russell Street businesses, property owners, the local art community and the wider Toowoomba community.
“Feedback from the consultation indicated a preference for more pedestrian-friendly spaces as well as support for additional trees, seating, traffic calming, maintaining existing car parks and installing new public art.
“A Public Art Reference Group will oversee the public artwork aspects of the project.”
The recommendation of the Infrastructure Committee to endorse the Russell Street Streetscape Refresh Concept Design will be considered by Council at the Ordinary meeting on 19 November 2019.
