New footpath to improve safety and connectivity in the Bay

Work is starting this week on a new footpath along Nissen Street to improve pedestrian access and safety between two of Hervey Bay’s busiest roads—Boat Harbour Drive and Old Maryborough Road.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Lachlan Cosgrove said the new 2.5-metre-wide footpath would complete a vital missing link in the local pedestrian network.

“This project will make it easier and safer for residents, workers, and shoppers to move through the area on foot, particularly with the number of businesses along Nissen Street,” he said.

“It follows the installation of traffic lights at the Nissen Street and Islander Road intersection last year, further enhancing safety and accessibility in this busy commercial precinct.”

The project includes:

• A 2.5m-wide footpath for approximately 340m on the eastern side of Nissen Street;
• Providing a 3m-wide footpath for 37m between Boat Harbour Drive and the Fraser Shores Shopping Centre access road;
• Concrete islands to establish a pedestrian refuge crossing on Old Maryborough Road;
• New concrete driveways, kerb ramps, signage, line marking, and landscaping.

A traffic and pedestrian management plan will be in place for the duration of construction.

Work is expected to be completed by mid-June, weather permitting.

“We are committed to improving connectivity across Hervey Bay, making it easier for people to walk or cycle safely to work, shops, and services,” Cr Cosgrove said.

“It’s all part of Council’s plan to build better communities together.”

The $730,000 Nissen Street, Boat Harbour Drive to Old Maryborough Road, construct shared path project is being delivered by Fraser Coast Regional Council and is proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.