Imagine taking a leisurely stroll or bike ride on a shared pathway from Picton to Tahmoor and back.
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Well, imagine no more because Wollondilly Council has secured funding for the first stage of a shared cycleway and footpath between the two town centres.
The first stage of the pathway between River Road, Tahmoor and Wonga Road, Picton - near Picton High School - is expected to be completed this financial year.
Wollondilly mayor Matthew Deeth said this was great news for pedestrians and cyclists.
"Creating a pedestrian link between Tahmoor and Picton High is something that council has had on our agenda for many years, and now we finally have the funding to start working on it," he said.
"There are some challenging site conditions on this section of road and the funding will allow us to carry out a full investigation and prepare a detailed design to address these constraints.
"This will provide the basis for future funding applications to be able to complete construction of this vital piece of infrastructure.
"This is fantastic news for our community and I would like to express our appreciation to the state government for this support."
The funding for stage one of the track is a part of the 2019-20 Active Transport Program.
The NSW government has also allocated funding for the concept design, community consultation and detailed design of this "missing link" between Picton and Tahmoor.
Transport NSW and Roads and Maritime Services have provided a $151,200 grant through the program, with council required to provide an additional $80,650 towards the project.
Wollondilly MP Nathaniel Smith said the government was committed to working with councils to make walking and cycling a more convenient, safer and enjoyable transport option.
"I am delighted that the state government has been able to partner with Wollondilly Council in this exciting community project," he said.
"We want to support more accessible, liveable and productive towns by targeting investment in areas where these short local trips occur.
"This will help reduce congestion on the roads as well as increase the health of our residents."
The first stage of the project will be 200 metres of new shared pathway at the front of Picton High on Argyle Street up to the intersection of Wonga Road.
There is no timeline for the completion of the entire track.
