Safer journeys are on the way in Forbes and Parkes with projects rolling out under the latest round of the Australian and NSW Governments’ accelerated Fixing Local Roads program.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said Forbes and Parkes Shire Councils would share in more than $5.7 million in road funding to help tackle the increasing amount of work required to provide safe roads for their communities.
“Forbes Shire Council will receive $2,382,564 in joint funding to improve the Yarrabandai Road, which I know was affected by the recent heavy rainfall,” Mr McCormack said.
“Safe reliable roads are essential infrastructure for communities in regional New South Wales – by improving roads, we are making a big difference to people’s lives in ensuring they get home sooner and safer,” said the National’s Leader.
“We know improved roads are crucial to regional communities – the 16 successful road projects across the Riverina and Central West receiving $20,084,287 in funding from the NSW and Federal Governments, will play a big role in helping residents and businesses recover from the effects of bushfires, drought, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.”
NSW Upper House MP, Sam Farraway said that it was great to be able to work with the Federal Government to deliver these vital upgrades to local roads. “This program won’t just ease the burden of maintenance for local councils, but it will deliver safer, more reliable journeys for all local road users.”
Round 1 of the Fixing Local Roads Program saw $243.6 million of joint funding allocated to 253 projects in 83 Local Government Areas, and Round 2 will see $150 million allocated to more than 100 road projects in 90 Local Government Areas.