A student presentation to Kempsey Shire councillors has helped unlock more than $750,000 in state funding to investigate safer walking and cycling routes through South Kempsey.
Student leaders from Kempsey Adventist School pitched their vision for the area directly to council, and that pitch has now translated into real money. Funding secured through the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active program will support a master plan for walking and cycling connections between South Kempsey and Crescent Head.
The work covers flood studies, detailed surveys, a Review of Environmental Factors, drainage and lighting plans, and detailed designs for key focus areas around Kempsey Adventist School, Rudders Lagoon, and the intersection of Lachlan Street and Angus McNeil Crescent.
Mayor Kinne Ring said the funding showed what could be achieved when council and the community worked together.
“When the students presented their ideas to councillors, they spoke about making it safer and easier for people to walk and ride through South Kempsey,” Mayor Ring said.
“They shared a vision for better connections within the community, and it’s fantastic to see those ideas help secure funding to investigate how it could be achieved.”
“This project is about improving safety, supporting active lifestyles and creating better connections to the places people use every day.”
The Get NSW Active program backs projects that make walking and riding safer and more convenient, aiming to build healthier communities, safer journeys to school, and better connections through footpaths, crossings, bike paths and shared paths.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Daniel Thoroughgood said the funding would let council properly scope the project before committing to construction.
“This funding allows Council to complete the planning, investigations and design work needed to develop a well-informed concept for the project,” Mr Thoroughgood said.
“Master planning and concept design are important steps in understanding opportunities, constraints and costs, and help position Council to pursue future funding opportunities should the project progress.”
The project is fully funded through the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active program.
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