Snowy Monaro Regional Council is pleased to announce finalisation of the $1 million funding agreement for the Monaro Rail Trail project in Bombala.
Construction of a new trailhead and sealed shared-use path along the existing rail corridor is now funded, thanks to the Investing in Our Communities program from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
This new sealed path will begin from a trailhead next to Bombala Visitors Centre, proceeding along Mahratta Street to where the current rail line crosses Stephen Street (Monaro Highway). The path then continues north within the rail corridor for approximately 3km, or as far as funding permits.
Existing rail infrastructure at Bombala Station and along the rail corridor will be preserved or retained wherever possible. The trail will feature signage and seating to highlight local history and the landscape, enhancing the experience for users.
Delivery of the project will be completed over two phases, with final completion scheduled for October 2026.
In the initial planning phase, running from now until mid-2025, Council will be working on lease negotiations with Transport for NSW, environmental assessments and reports, as well as the necessary pre-construction surveying work.
Phase two will run from mid-2025 to late 2026, and will see the construction of the trail itself and all associated infrastructure.
Council thanks the Australian Government and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts for their support of this project.
A formal invitation to apply for these funds was received in 2023, with Council resolving to accept the invitation at its October 2023 meeting.