Dannevirke: Locals dig deep for safer path

Ernie Christison has begun work on stage two of the Dannevirke walkway/cycleway. Photo / Christine McKay

Contractor Ernie Christison has begun work on stage two of the community-funded walkway along Adelaide Rd to Cadman Rd and is aiming to finish in time for Christmas.

"I know a lot of people are looking forward to seeing this completed, including the families who take a deep breath when walkers are confronted with cars, especially on the rise of the hill," Mr Christison said.

There are plans to provide a seating area at the top of the Adelaide Rd hill which has a panoramic view across Dannevirke. Mr Christison said community workers have already dressed the sleepers for the seats.

Mr Christison won the contract for stage two and, like everyone involved, he's cut his rate for the community project.

"I've only had this digger for three weeks and this is the busiest it's been so far," he said.

"I've contracted this job at a very, very low price, but everyone has pitched in. Contractor Matt Charlton let me use his trailer and Dannevirke Carriers carted the lime to the railway yards at a very discounted rate, as we're all keen to get the walkers off the road."

Chris Southgate, who is project managing the walkway for Dannevirke Rotary, said the Dannevirke Community Board has contributed $10,000 to the walkway, with $5000 of that earmarked for this stage.

There is also funding from the Eastern and Central Community Trust and Infinity Foundation. Rotary District 9940 has donated $2000 and the Dannevirke Lions $2500."