ENGINEERING ISSUE
COMPLEX engineering issues have delayed the new walking trail connecting Castle Hill to the central business district.
Construction of the new walking trail has been under way for months, and it is expected to be open soon despite the delays.
While work was initially expected to be completed in
November last year, works were stalled when the Townsville City Council contractor ran into geotechnical issues.
Mayor Jenny Hill said it was anticipated the track would open sooner, but the project had presented a number of complex engineering challenges that required innovative thinking and solutions.
Further geotechnical studies were done once the contractor identified instability in
the rock face. This required a rethink of the design and additional remediation works to ensure the structure would be anchored correctly.
“The fact is we are building an asset for the community that will be in use for the next 50-plus years and it is our job to ensure we don’t compromise on safety and quality,” Ms Hill said.
The new walkway will link the existing public carpark located at the western end of Walker St to Jones St Reservoir, located above The Cutting carpark.
From this location there is also a new track connecting to the existing Maidenhair Track and on to the Goat Track.
Ms Hill said Castle Hill was a “much-loved landmark” in the city, with tens of thousands of locals and tourists climbing it each year to enjoy the view or work up a sweat.
“This new pedestrian link between Castle Hill and the CBD means we are delivering yet another way for locals and tourists alike to explore and enjoy the hill,” she said.
“I have no doubt the connection will become a popular access point for the trails and experiences on Castle Hill.”
The $1.1m project is funded 50-50 through the federal government’s Building Better Regions Fund and the council.