The NSW Government will create better-connected communities across the State, thanks to a $113 million investment to deliver critical infrastructure and service upgrades.
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the 2019-20 NSW Budget provides funding for vital infrastructure to support both new and growing communities.
“We are delivering vital community infrastructure so that when people move into a new home they are also moving into a well-connected community,” Mr Stokes said.
The Budget includes $58 million in new funding for work to commence on infrastructure projects across NSW, including road upgrades across Greater Sydney, a new pedestrian and cycleway bridge over Parramatta River, as well as water and sewerage works in Yass, Quenbeyan-Palerang and Warnervale.
“This funding will help deliver essential services needed to support growing communities where new homes are being built, as well as improving some of the pinch points on our roads to ease congestion,” Mr Stokes said.
The funding is provided through the NSW Government’s Housing Acceleration Fund (HAF) grants, which provide early investment in infrastructure projects that are a blockage to housing delivery or would only typically be considered after new homes have been built.
A further $55 million in the Budget will also deliver vital infrastructure and service upgrades in 10 separate Aboriginal communities through the Government’s Roads to Home initiative.
New roads, footpaths and streetlights will be among the upgrades to be delivered at these communities to provide better connections to surrounding neighbourhoods and services.
“These upgrades will make it easier for people in these areas to get to and from work and school, improve road safety, and enable communities to start and grow new businesses,” Mr Stokes said.
“Community consultation will soon begin with the Aboriginal communities identified with work to commence later this year.”
WENDY TUCKERMAN 