Jennie George MP, Federal Member for Throsby, officially turned the first sod with Mr David Jesson, General Manager for Shellharbour City Council, on the over $2.3 million ‘Destination Albion Park’ project south of Wollongong today.

Ms George said the project would inject new life into Albion Park, revitalising the town centre and creating a distinct thoroughfare.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Anthony Albanese said that as part of our Economic Stimulus Plan, the Rudd Labor Government has allocated over $2.3 million to the Shellharbour Council for the project.

“Destination Albion Park will involve upgrades to the central business district of the town, including installation of underground power along the main street, construction of ‘gateways’ to the eastern and western entry points, new paving, lighting and tree planting,” Ms George said.

“Residents and businesses will benefit from a transformed streetscape with new recreational community spaces, creating an inviting town for visitors and locals to enjoy.

“This area has so much to offer with sandy beaches close by, rural tranquillity, night life, shopping and recreational facilities. Once this project is completed there will be long-term benefits to visitors and those in the community.”

Mr Albanese said that in partnership with every council in the country the Rudd Labor Government was delivering more than 3,300 small and larger scale building projects, including new and refurbished public libraries, sporting facilities, parks and playgrounds, and child care centres.

“In fact, we are making the single largest federal investment in community infrastructure through the more than $1 billion Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program,” Mr Albanese said.

The Program’s remaining $220 million will be made available to councils in coming months, with Shellharbour City Council set to receive at least $387,000.

“This additional funding will support even more local jobs and rebuild the nation’s vital community infrastructure,” Mr Albanese said.

Ms George and Mr Albanese congratulated the Shellharbour City Council and the local community for helping deliver these important community facilities and build a stronger region for the future.