The lighting project at Waterhole Creek has been officially opened and the lights have been switched on at a community ceremony in Morwell today.
Funding of $375,000 announced by Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has seen the installation of 52 lights along a 1.5km stretch of pathway.
Mr Chester said the lighting upgrade would help to improve community safety in the area.
“This long awaited project will help to create safer pedestrian links and greater community connectedness for local residents at dusk and dawn,” Mr Chester said.
“The new lights will help to deter anti-social behaviour and provide a feeling of safety and security for everyone in our community as they go about their day-to-day activities.”
Latrobe City Council Mayor Darrell White said the project offered valuable safety and social connectivity benefits for the community.
“As well as the improved visibility along the walking path which promotes the perception of safety and security for users and local residents, we also hope that the lighting will see more people using the tracks to access social and recreational facilities,” Mr White said.
“We know that walking and cycling are low-risk, healthy ways to keep fit and we want people in this area of Morwell to be able to get to their sporting club, community group, after school program on foot or by bike, or simply to be able to get to the Mid Valley shopping centre without having to drive.”
Mr White said people using the pathway could enjoy nearby infrastructure – the cultural walk, the fitness station, the BMX track and the park with tables and benches.
“These assets are there for the community and should be able to be used at any time – not just when it’s light.
“We know too that improved natural surveillance and visibility on the pathway will deter antisocial behaviour and potential criminal activity.
“We acknowledge the Federal Government’s financial contribution to the project. It’s a worthwhile investment in both Morwell and the wider region. We are currently constructing the Morwell to Traralgon pathway and the Waterhole Creek lighting sits nicely by the side of this project as a way of promoting a healthier and more accessible Latrobe City.”
The Waterhole Creek lighting project has been funded by the Federal Government’s Safer Streets Program.
