In great news for local pedestrians and cyclists, Wollondilly Shire Council has been successful in its application for funding towards a new footpath/cycleway linking two of its major centres.

As part of the 2019-20 Active Transport Program, the State Government has allocated funding for the concept design, community consultation and detailed design of the missing link of shared pathway between River Road, Tahmoor and Wonga Road Picton, near Picton High School.

The allocation will also allow for the construction of the first stage of the project this financial year; 200m of new shared pathway at the front of Picton High on Argyle Street up to the intersection of Wonga Road.

In total, Transport NSW and Roads & Maritime Services have provided a grant of $151,200 through the Program, with Council required to provide an additional $80,650 towards the project.

Wollondilly Mayor Matthew Deeth said, “This is fantastic news for our community, and I would like to express our appreciation to the State Government for this support.”

“Creating a pedestrian link between Tahmoor and Picton High is something that Council has had on our agenda for many years, and now we finally have the funding to start working on it.”

“There are some challenging site conditions on this section of road and the funding will allow us to carry out a full investigation and prepare a detailed design to address these constraints.”

“This will provide the basis for future funding applications to be able to complete construction of this vital piece of infrastructure,” he said.

Member for Wollondilly Nathaniel Smith noted, “The NSW Government is committed to working with councils to make walking and cycling a more convenient, safer and enjoyable transport option. I am delighted that State Government has been able to partner with Wollondilly Council in this exciting community project.”

“We want to support more accessible, liveable and productive towns by targeting investment in areas where these short local trips occur.”

“This will help reduce congestion on the roads as well as increase the health of our residents,” he said.