Today’s sod turning officially marks the start of construction on the Coonawarra Rail Trail.
Member for Barker, Tony Pasin said the Federal Government has committed $1,664,648 to help bring this project to fruition.
The Wattle Range Council has received a total of $2,623,517 via the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program to fund this and other projects across the Council area.
“This funding under the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program enables Wattle Range Council to deliver community facility and infrastructure improvements and upgrades across the council area.” Mr Pasin said.
“I am so pleased that this Federal Government funding will support worthwhile projects, like the Coonawarra Rail Trail, for communities throughout the Wattle Range Council.” Mr Pasin said.
“The 30km Coonawarra Rail Trail is a long-awaited project, which will cater to a range of users including recreational walkers and runners, cyclists, and tourists wanting to visit wineries and other destinations, starting from the town of Penola leading through several vineyards and wineries to Coonawarra.” Mr Pasin said.
“Every single project we support makes a huge difference in our local community.” Mr Pasin said.
“I am pleased to be partnering with the Wattle Range Council to ensure this Coonawarra Rail Trail project gets underway supporting jobs in our local communities, as well as make the Limestone Coast a better place to live, work and raise family.“ Mr Pasin said.
Mayor Des Noll said the Wattle Range Council is pleased to be supporting Coonawarra and Penola residents with this exciting tourism initiative.
“A project that has been a long time coming is now in its development stages.” Mayor Noll said.
“It’s an opportunity to get out into the magnificent countryside and in amongst the vines which produce world class wine. Charge your glasses and salute this walking trail initiative.” Mayor Noll said.
ENDS
The Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program funding will enable Wattle Range Council to complete the following projects:
Phase 1
Beachport Playground, $200,000
Beachport Bowling Club, $165,000
Lossie Lane, Millicent, $30,000
Mount Burr – Service Roads (Stage1), $119,298
Penola township entrance signage and landscaping, $115,000
Total Phase 1 = $629,298
Phase 2
Penola to Coonawarra Cycling / Walking Trail, $736,052
Total Phase 2= $736,052
Phase 3
Construction 1 January 2022 to 30 June 2023
Mount Burr Service Roads, $330,000
Penola to Coonawarra Cycling / Walking Trail (Stage 2), $928,596
Total Phase 3 = $1,258,596
TOTAL (Phase 1, 2 & 3) = $2,623,946
