Cairns CBD Carpark Upgrade

The Palaszczuk Government is investing $2.94 million in the upgrade of the central Lake Street carpark in Cairns CBD.

Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Mark Furner said the carpark upgrade, in partnership with Cairns Regional Council, would deliver construction jobs and convenience for motorists.

“As the only above ground, 24-hour, multi-storey carpark in the Cairns CBD, this is important infrastructure for local business, and it’s in need of an upgrade to improve safety, reliability and appearance for the decades ahead,” Mr Furner said.

“The refurbishment of the 1980s-built Lake Street carpark is expected to boost safety, security and fire standards, while also extending the building’s working life for another 30 years.

‘It’s a shovel ready project that will deliver 18 additional construction jobs for the Far North and safe, convenient parking for customers doing business in the Cairns CBD.”              

Cairns Regional Council Mayor, Bob Manning welcomed the Palaszczuk Government’s funding commitment to the Council’s carpark rejuvenation project.

“I am thrilled priority funding for improvements to the Lake Street carpark has been confirmed with planning for the project already well advanced,” Mayor Manning said.

“The partnership means Council can move forward on improvements to the multi-storey carpark while also helping to keep rates as low as possible for local residents and businesses.

“It’s a project that will complement the revitalisation of the Lake Street precinct through our City Centre Alive program to provide safe and easily accessible parking around the clock.

“We know first impressions are important for visitors to Far North Queensland’s premier destination.”

Member for Barron River, Craig Crawford said the Lake Street carpark upgrade would benefit both residents and visitors across the Far North.

“Cairns CBD is the business centre of the Far North and that makes the delivery of safe and convenient parking an important initiative for the entire region,” Mr Crawford said.

“It’s a good example of the results that can be achieved when two levels of government work together for the benefit of the community." 

Funding is being made available under the Palaszczuk Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies program.

Cairns Regional Council has called for tenders for the upgrade of the Lake Street carpark and expects to award the construction contract by late May for completion in late 2017.

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