Councillor Murray O'Keefe hopes a $4 million Rangari Road fiscal hole could be filled in next week's state budget

Upgrading the notorious regional road was a key election promise for the region, at last year's election.

But in August the state government committed to spend just $9 million to seal the final 19-kilometres of dirt road; a project that is expected to cost $12.9 million.

Councillor Murray O'Keefe said he was hopeful the state government would fill in the $4 million gap in next Tuesday's budget.

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Gunnedah council, burdened by COVID-19, can't afford to pay the difference, he said.

Cr O'Keefe said the state government would likely hand down a big spending stimulatory budget on Tuesday and Gunnedah deserved a piece of the action.

"This budget, we know they're going to be looking to spend some money on shovel ready-infrastructure," he said.

"I'm confident that the project's going to be delivered.

"Like everyone I can be impatient about that. It's something that is a high priority for this region, I'd like to see it done. It ticks the boxes for the state government. My humble opinion is that the government is seeking to boost NSW's recovery."

He said the project would create jobs, and free up council funding for future investment by reducing road maintenance costs.

The project was slated to begin construction mid-2021, with planning to be completed at the end of the financial year.

The councillor said he would also be looking out for funding for an upgrade of the Gunnedah hospital, a project he said would be a "multi generational" boost for the town's future.

Rangari road spans three councils, including Narrabri, Tamworth and Gunnedah.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson was contacted for this story.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said he was looking forward to seeing what the budget held.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what inclusions are made for Gunnedah Shire in the budget next week."

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