Council to source funding for Rail Trail

Published on 25 July 2023

Councillors have given the greenlight for further funding investigations into a Rail Trail in Yass.

In 2022/23, Council obtained initial funding to undertake a strategic assessment for the proposed rail trail. The strategic assessment examined several factors, including:

• Heritage investigations of the route with a special focus on the bridge.
• Structural assessment of the bridge and necessary restoration works.
• Indigenous study of sites of significance within the rail reserve.
• Identification of potential new business opportunities and how the rail trail contributes to the visitor economy.
• Estimated maintenance costs and identification of a suitable maintenance regime.

Based on the information provided in the feasibility study, the estimated cost to construct the rail trail would be $11 million.

Of the $11 million, the approximate cost to maintain and repair the heritage bridge over the Yass River will be $4.2 million.

Yass Valley Mayor, Allan Mcgrath said the Rail Trail will do more than just encourage physical activity.

“There are opportunities for existing businesses to amplify and new businesses to develop because of the trail,” Cr McGrath said.

“It will also allow active transport connectivity for Yass CBD with North Yass and showcase our heritage and history.”

The Yass Rail Trail will be a 4.5km designated shared zone for pedestrians and bicycles running from the Yass Junction Railway Station to the Yass CBD.

Council staff will now seek funding opportunities to progress the Yass Rail Trail Project, including a detailed design, community consultation and construction.