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Riverfront Redevelopment BeginsTree removal and replacementsStage 1A of the much anticipated Riverfront Revitalisation has begun. On Monday, 2 November 2015, Council crews began clearing palm trees on the Quay Street footpath between Fitzroy and William Streets.

Later in the construction phase, these spaces will be replaced with mature-aged trees to better frame the historic facades of our iconic buildings.

Council is retaining several significant trees. Some of these were planted by internationally renowned botanist, and one of our leading early citizens, Anthelme Thozet, in 1867. He was the inspiration for our street trees and a benefactor to the Botanic Gardens. He was also actively involved in both the School of Arts establishment and our Show Society

AT A GLANCE

Tree removal and replacement.. ........1

Changes to road conditions ........ ........1

Business as usual .... ........ ........ ........ ........2

Parking .. ........ ........ ........ ........ ........ ........ ........2

Smart City technology .... ........ ........ ........2

Rockhampton Regional CouncilPO Box 1860, Rockhampton Qld 4700

Ph: 07 4932 9000 or 1300 22 55 77E: enquiries@rrc..qld..gov..au

05 November 2015

RIVERFRONT REVITALISATION NEWSLETTER

Project stages:Due to the scope of the Riverfront Revitalisation, this project has been separated into two main stages:• Stage 1 – Quay Street; Upper

level reconstruction works from Fitzroy to William Street including Denham Street to the East Street intersection.

• Stage 2 – Lower Bank Revitalisation (seeking additional funding)

Funding applications have been submitted to the Federal and State Government with Council expecting a response on both applications by December 2015.

Changes to road conditions As mentioned in the previous newsletter, Quay Street (between the Fitzroy Bridge and Denham Street) will be partially closed to allow traffic to run south to north (one way). Quay Lane will stay as existing, with traffic flow from north to south until early next year.

Council workers have been monitoring traffic flow along Quay Street since construction commenced and there appears to be minimal interruptions to motorists.

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Business as usual Council will ensure pedestrian access via the existing footpath will be available throughout most of the construction on Quay and Denham Streets. It is expected that the footpath will only be inaccessible during concrete pours or when Council is building the footpath outside businesses. Council will provide notice to businesses prior to this occurring.Council will always ensure that there is an alternative footpath available where works are being undertaken.

Smart City technology Council will use the redevelopment of the riverfront to reinvigorate the CBD by using strategically placed lighting and smart sensors, free public Wi-Fi and CCTV cameras. The first part of the project is to establish a smart-hub in the CBD, with links to Education providers and the private sector, This business incubator will enable start-up companies and students to test their ideas, be mentored by experts and network globally. It will bolster opportunities for start-ups to develop their scientific and technological business concepts in order to attract investment and translate them into products and services. This is an opportunity to create new locally-based jobs in emerging industries operating on the global stage. By doing so, we will be able to offer our young people world-class education, training and career opportunities in disciplines of global demand right here in Rockhampton and retain the benefit of their skills and knowledge for the region. Community consultation on the Smart Regional Plan project has been carried out over the past six weeks. A report on the community’s feedback is due to Council soon.

Parking on Quay StreetYou will have noticed that car parking is now limited along Quay Street where construction is currently underway. Throughout the construction phases we will keep you up-to-date on what parking sections will be closed off. Alternative car parks that remain open throughout the entire project include both the Riverside car park and the Derby Street car park.

After reviewing parking capacity in the area, we are confident there are enough spaces to accommodate the typical parking demands. To ensure there is minimal disruption to businesses and customers, we will continue to monitor the area as construction progresses. To alleviate any potential parking issues, Council have been able to secure the use of the Bulletin Carpark from Bevan Slattery for the Quay Street Business owners use for clientele and patrons. We wish to thank Bevan Slattery for the use of this facility which will assist with the progression of the project and assist affected business owners along Quay Street.

Further consideration for car parking will continue to be reviewed at all times: • Additional car parking along the partially closed section of Quay Street.• Whether parking times need to be adjusted from 2 hours to 3 hours on some adjacent streets.

Alternate options including, opening Council paid parking areas to provide free parking in the short term.