Footpath improvements key to accessible communities

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Published: 24 June 2021

Footpaths in Beechmont are among those being funded in the 2021-2022 Budget.

Council provides a network of approximately 80 kilometres of pathways throughout the Scenic Rim and has allocated $1.41 million to footpath works in 2021-2022 Budget to increase accessibility and services for urban and semi-urban areas.

The Budget provides for important footpaths in Beechmont, Tamborine Mountain and Dugandan in 2021-2022 as well as minor footpath works across the region.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the 10 Year Capital Works Program outlines the plan for ongoing investment in new and upgraded footpaths in towns and villages across the Scenic Rim.

"I commend Council officers who have prioritised the needs of our growing communities and been successful in securing funding from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program for footpaths this financial year," he said.

"The designs for new footpaths in Beechmont are being finalised and will connect existing social infrastructure including Graceleigh Park and Beechmont State School with surrounding rural residential areas.

"Beechmont Road is a road of regional significance, carrying a high volume of local and visitor traffic, and this two-stage project will deliver safer outcomes for pedestrians.

"An aged footpath will be replaced in Dugandan to upgrade the surface and improve the safety of a well-used connective pathway.

“Minor footpaths works includes new crossovers and ramps which for a relatively small investment has a significant benefit for those who use mobility scooters or for young families with prams, making it easier and safer for them to access key services in our towns and villages.

"A well-maintained footpath network is an important part of encouraging healthy and active

communities, as walking is one of the easiest ways for people of all ages to increase their health and fitness."

Capital works on footpaths in 2021-2022 include:

$425,000 for Beechmont Road (Stage 1 – McInnes Court to School)
$625,000 for Beechmont Road (Stage 2 – Windabout Road to School)
$173,000 for Alpine Terrace, Tamborine Mountain
$120,000 for Boonah-Rathdowney Road, Dugandan
$69,000 for minor footpath works.

A copy of the Scenic Rim Regional Council 2021-2022 Community Budget Report is available for download from Council's website: www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au/financial-information