The City of Ballarat, along with three of its neighbouring councils, have received some assistance to improve potholed roads and other community infrastructure through recently announced federal funding.
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The federal government announced on Tuesday the City of Ballarat will receive more than $3 million through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, bringing the total amount it received through the program to $8.4 million.
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Neighbouring councils also received significant funding through the program, with Moorabool Shire Council receiving $2.56 million, Hepburn Shire Council receiving $1.93 million and Golden Plains Shire Council receiving $2.66 million.
The funding can be spent by councils on a range of projects, including road maintenance, signage, lighting and footpaths.
The funding comes after some regional councils are struggling to keep up to date with their roads maintenance with an especially cold and wet winter exacerbating existing issues, including potholes.
The City of Ballarat spends an estimated $3.5-4 million on maintenance for its roads, paths and bridges alone each year, with even more spent on the complete replacement of roads through its capital works budget, much of which relies on support from the state and federal governments.
IN OTHER NEWS:
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the federal government working closely with councils to ensure community infrastructure was delivered.
"I am excited to announce funding allocations have been made for phase three of the LCRI program, with guidelines now online for councils to start nominating their priority projects," she said.
"From sealing rough regional roads and installing safety barriers to upgrading sporting facilities and installing Wi-Fi networks, this program has already been making local projects that communities need and deserve a reality - and I look forward to seeing more get underway thanks to this third phase."
