Trees to take root in Merrigang Street
As works on Bowral’s Merrigang Street Reconstruction Project hits the final stages, Council staff are busy preparing the site for the arrival of 60 new trees.
The advanced Crab Apple trees will be one of the final touches to the $2.1 million reconstruction project.
Since constructed started in February, Council crews and contractors have renewed much of the street’s infrastructure including constructing new kerb and guttering, installing stormwater drainage, re-directing gas services, installing new water mains and reconstructing existing driveways.
Council’s Deputy General Manager of Operations, Barry Paull said the six month reconstruction project would breathe new life into one of Bowral’s oldest streets.
“For several years the road surface on Merrigang Street has been deteriorating due to increased traffic and inadequate drainage,” he said.
“Now that work is nearing completion, residents of Merrigang Street and motorists who travel the street will soon be able to enjoy smoother and safer conditions.”
Works on the half kilometre reconstruction project are on schedule to be open prior to Tulip Time.
“We’ve been fortunate that we’ve had a lot of good weather that’s enabled us to get on with the job largely unhindered,” Mr Paull said.
“Together, our work crews have not only improved the local services but helped to protect the heritage and aesthetic properties of this important street for years to come.”
Major civil contractor’s Fulton Hogan will undertake the final road pavement works from late July. This will involve excavating the existing road surface and applying multiple layers of smooth asphalt. Weather permitting, it is anticipated the final coat will be applied over a two day period during the first week in August. During this time, there will be extensive disruption to local traffic, however traffic controllers will be onsite to direct motorists. Immediately affected residents will be notified prior to the commencement of works.
Council’s landscaping team will also begin preparation for the new trees in the coming days.
In addition to the planting of the advanced trees, other final landscaping touches will include the construction of new pavements and the redesign and turfing of the road’s nature strips.
“Whilst not yet complete, Council would like to thank all the street’s residents and the Shire’s motorists in advance for their patience.”
The Merrigang Street Reconstruction Project is part of Council’s Road Rehabilitation Program.