Redland City’s 2017-18 budget invests heavily in community infrastructure, from new roads to better parks and sportsfields.

Mayor Karen Williams said the budget went well beyond the “three Rs” of roads, rates and rubbish investing $82 million to cater for key City priorities identified by residents and the business community.

“The foundations of this year’s budget are built around the six strategic priorities agreed to by all Councillors after last year’s election and these priorities flow through to the capital plan,” she said.

“A focus, both for our residents and this year’s budget, is transport infrastructure with $40 million committed to improving the road network, renewing marine transport infrastructure and upgrading footpaths, bikeways, carparks and bus shelters.

“More than $23.6 million has been earmarked for road projects alone, including our successful Green Seal Program, which is delivering sealed roads quicker to residents who have had to cope with dirt roads.

“Transport infrastructure such as footpaths, bikeways and bus shelters will account for another $6.5 million. This money will lead to real improvements for residents.”

Cr Williams said the City’s marine infrastructure and foreshores would benefit from a $14.5 million allocation.

“As a city of islands our marine infrastructure is critical, helping our 10,000 island based residents get around safely and quickly,” she said.

“More than $3.26 million earmarked for the Macleay Island ramp carpark and money put aside for the Coochiemudlo Island berthing piles and barge ramp upgrades and the Russell Island pontoon upgrade.”

Parks and conservation are major beneficiaries, with $14.39 million for open space and conservation projects, including South East Thornlands Park, William Ross Park, O’Gorman Street Park and Henry Ziegenfusz Sportsfield improvements among a range of park, playground and sportsground projects.

“Big-ticket projects include $1.176 million for Capalaba’s Indigiscapes Visitor Centre expansion, $990,000 for the Cleveland Aquatic Precinct redevelopment and $1.37 million for Redland Bay’s Bayview Conservation Area,’’ Cr Williams said.

“Council also has allocated $1.88 million to our libraries, Redland Performing Arts Centre and Redland Art Gallery public art and acquisitions – assets which do so much to foster the Redlands’ strong sense of community.

“For a city of our size, these are significant allocations and go to the heart of what residents tell us are their priorities.”