A streetscape revitalisation plan for a rural town is swinging into gear, with an upgrade of William Street in Imbil now underway.
The project is aimed at improving connectivity, road safety and parking options in the town.
William Street was one of several projects identified through community feedback completed last year by Gympie Regional Council, Queensland Hydro and Fourfold Studios, which sought to define the future needs of the area.
Gympie mayor Glen Hartwig said the William Street upgrade was the first milestone in a multi-year action plan to revitalise Imbil’s town centre, funded through Queensland Hydro’s Community Benefit Fund.
“In 2025 council worked alongside Queensland Hydro and community engagement specialists Fourfold Studios to hear from community about what makes Imbil special and define opportunities to grow Imbil, while preserving its unique character for many years to come,” he said.
“Thanks to the community, we now have a roadmap that identifies the projects and priorities that matter most to Imbil, and this upgrade is a first step in response to the needs of residents and businesses.”
The project will deliver road widening, on-street parking with up to 90 additional parallel car parks, improved footpath connectivity, improved stormwater and drainage, and tree planting and open space rehabilitation.
Some of the trees on William Street will be removed to facilitate the improvements. The council will replace these trees with species that contribute to the leafy feel of Imbil.
Queensland Hydro executive chair Mark Irwin said the upgrade ensured local priorities were reflected in early benefits for the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.
“Our Community Benefit Fund is designed to deliver long-term positive outcomes for the community, and the William Street upgrade is a strong example of that commitment,” he said.
“We’re pleased to be working with Gympie Regional Council and the Imbil community to invest in initiatives that matter, particularly as works commence on the Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.”
