The final report of the Alexandra, Thornton and Eildon Trail Link Feasibility Study report has been submitted to the Murrindindi Shire Council.
Following consideration of the major issues pertaining to the development of a trail between Alexandra and Eildon (via Thornton), taking into account the views of key stakeholders, groups and individuals consulted (and background information obtained during the course of the project), this Study finds that the proposed trail will result in benefits to the communities through which it passes and the people who may use it.
The preferred route, utilising the road verges of Goulburn Valley Highway (between Alexandra and Thornton) and Back Eildon Road (between Thornton and Eildon) was examined in detail for its suitability for the proposed trail. Section 6 of the feasibility study presents the Estimates of Probable Costs associated with the development of the proposed trail on the preferred alignment, incorporating various trail infrastructure such as trail surfacing, trailhead development, bridges and boardwalks, signage, clearing and drainage. It is estimated the entire trail will cost approximately $4.97 million. Maintenance of the proposed trail is likely to cost in the order of $57,570 per year (a rate of approximately $2,275/km).
Increased visitor numbers in the order of 6,000 will inject in excess of $600,000/year into the Shire’s economy. Local use rates of over 13,000 people/year will see the injection of an additional $27,000/year (meaning a total injection of over $635,000/year).
Tags: Rail trail; trail construction; construction; rail trail bridge; rail trail surface; trail signage; Transplan Pty Ltd., rail trail; trail feasibility study; Transplan Pty Ltd