Shared pathways, road improvements, amenities, sporting facility upgrades and town centre revitalisation make up the list of projects to receive funding.

Mayor of Port Stephens Ryan Palmer says the vote marks an important milestone in the future of Port Stephens.

“Port Stephens Council is already delivering a record $33 million program of major projects in 2019 to 2020. This vote brings the total infrastructure spend to almost $49 million, showing that we’re able to deliver the projects that our community wants and needs.

“We’re talking about almost $5 million for footpaths, $2 million for roads and $2.4 million for town centre revitalisation.

“Whether it’s the pathways and town centre revitalisation at Anna Bay and Medowie, improving road safety in the West Ward or demolishing the Donald Street carpark and progressing the Tomaree Sports Complex in the East, these projects will have lasting benefits across all of Port Stephens.

“I want to thank everyone who participated in the community consultation process — hundreds of people had their say both in person and online. We heard your feedback and we’ll be delivering these important projects as a priority for our community.

Deputy Mayor Sarah Smith has commended Council’s consultation with the community.

“A wonderful a part of this process was the number of people who turned up to the community information sessions, especially people who had never attended something like that before. Young families, kids – they're the ones who are going to benefit from these works.

“These are projects people have been wanting and needing for a long time. I want to encourage the community to get excited, get involved, and lets work together to get all these things done,” Cr Smith said.

Funding for the projects will be sourced from a combination of reserve funds, developer contributions and by securing a loan up to $5 million.

$500 000 in ancillary minor works was endorsed as part of this range of projects and will go on public exhibition soon. To have your say on these and other projects, head to portstephens.nsw.gov.au/your-council/about-council/public-exhibition