
A major urban renewal project in central Wodonga is one step closer to completion with Premier Denis Napthine today opening the realigned Elgin Boulevard in Wodonga.
“The Junction Place Urban Renewal Initiative is a transformational project that will revitalise Wodonga’s city centre and improve the quality of life for the community,” Dr Napthine said.
“The completion of the $4.8 million Elgin Boulevard realignment removes the dogleg where Elgin Boulevard intersected with High Street to create safer conditions for pedestrians and better access to the Junction Place Urban Square and Mann Shopping Centre.
“This project is about taking advantage of the once-in-a-generation opportunity to completely re-imagine and revitalise the heart of Wodonga, creating jobs and economic benefits through increased business activity in the CBD.
“The Coalition Government is pleased to support this project by providing $3 million from the Regional Growth Fund for the realignment of Elgin Boulevard and the construction of Church Street and the Urban Square.
“We are also pleased to support to broader CBD renewal with nearly $30 million from Places Victoria,” Dr Napthine said.
Member for Benambra Bill Tilley said the Elgin Boulevard realignment was already delivering positive outcomes for the local community.
“It’s great to see that private businesses are already showing a significant interest in the revitalised CBD with a number of planning permits already approved, including one for a premises that will house three retail outlets,” Mr Tilley said.
“Reaching this important milestone in the CBD renewal project will further increase business confidence and lead to additional private investment in the Junction Place precinct.
“Landscaping along Elgin Boulevard and the construction of Church Street (south of Bond Street) will be complete in October,” Mr Tilley said.