Considered a showpiece project for the celebration of the region's 200^th anniversary since European settlement, the bicentennial walkway project was given a $3 million boost from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.

The announcement was made on November 18 by acting prime minister Michael McCormack, member for Cowper Pat Conaghan and mayor Peta Pinson.

The pedestrian promenade will extend south from the current Town Green west works and along Kooloonbung Creek to the nature reserve.

"When bushfires happen and natural disasters strike they take such a toll on local communities and to build back better is something we are conscious of as we battle recovery from fires, drought and COVID-19. We want to see jobs on the ground because when we build these regional communities, we build community capacity," Mr McCormack said.

He said the project investment will be beneficial for local business and jobs.

"The foreshore here is a magnificent place."

Mr Conaghan said more than $17,933,000 has now been invested in Cowper for infrastructure projects that assist community recovery.

"I advocated strongly for this $3,050,000 for our community, and the $1.5 million federal funding for the Town Green west upgrade, because I know this project will provide the missing link in the pedestrian walkway we all love and enjoy," Mr Conaghan said.

It has been almost one year since Mr McCormack visited the Cowper region to assess the impact of the horrific Black Summer bushfires.

"Today's announcement presents our bushfire relief in action while also highlighting our commitment to supporting local jobs, local contractors and local suppliers, as we not only rebuild from the summer of bushfires but also recover from the COVID-19 pandemic," Mr Conaghan added.

This bicentennial walkway project is among 22 jointly funded community infrastructure projects across the state.

Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams said overall, more than $500 million has been set aside by the state and federal governments to deliver projects that drive local economic, community and industry recovery.

"I am thrilled that this project has been approved for funding. The Port Macquarie-Hastings bicentennial walkway project will be an asset that will enhance our community which has been identified by the NSW government for fast track investment to assist recovery," she said.

Cr Pinson said the project will deliver approximately 700 metres of promenade walkway and keep local people in jobs.

"It has been extremely exciting to see the waterfront promenade progress along our Town Green, providing a wonderful area for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy," Cr Pinson said.

"This is a fantastic investment and an investment in an experience and the lifestyle we all live in. Nothing is finer than our foreshore.

"To see this project delivered after nearly eight years is pretty special."

Cr Pinson confirmed design plans for the project are complete.

Work is expected to start in 2021 and be complete by 2022.

Port Macquarie will celebrate its Bicentenary of European settlement on April 17-18, 2021.

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