The Federal Government is investing $21 million total in 19 projects across Victoria to provide more opportunities to walk, cycle and actively move through the state.
The funding will support councils to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths.
Frankston City Council will receive $923,650 to construct a shared path in Frankston South on Towerhill Road. The project will upgrade existing infrastructure to enhance safety by providing dedicated paths to enable cyclists to avoid the busy roadway.
On Phillip Island, $980,000 will be invested in the Bass Coast Shire Council’s new shared path to link the townships of Cowes and Ventnor for visitors and locals alike.
The funding will also provide $266,000 to the Ararat Rural City Council’s ‘Ararat on the Move’ Strategy to design and deliver almost 10km of bicycle routes, set to transform the town, connecting residents and visitors with shops, schools, recreational facilities, the Ararat CBD and train station.
In Kilsyth, Yarra Ranges Council will receive $460,000 to create a new 1.7km shared user path along Liverpool Road between Canterbury Road and Mount Dandenong Road to connect popular destinations such as the Baywater Business Precinct and Pinks Reserve, and feed into nearby trails.
Other projects receiving funding include:
- More than $960,000 for Melbourne City Council to upgrade three traffic signals on Rathdowne Street in Carlton to improve the safety of this shared path
- More than $680,000 for Maroondah City Council to convert the footpath along Greenwood Avenue into a shared user path, connecting the railway station in central Ringwood with the regional Jubilee Sports Precinct, Aquinas College and Great Ryrie Primary School
- $900,000 for Horsham Rural City Council to implement safety upgrades to main entry roads into the Horsham Central Activity District to provide safe access for cyclists and pedestrians
The Federal Government said it is making Australian cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns.
The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that are good for the planet and good for ourselves.
The program supports the Federal Government’s commitment to invest in infrastructure planning, design and construction that improves safety outcomes for vulnerable road users under the National Road and Safety Strategy 2021–30.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said, “From Melbourne to the Yarra Ranges, we’re investing in active transport options right across Victoria to shape the way locals and visitors move around our great towns.
“Whether you’re on a motor scooter, pushing a pram, walking or cycling, we’re making it easier for people to get to school, work or local services, without having to jump in the car.
“This is about so much more than bike lanes and footpaths, it’s about reshaping our cities and regional centres, connecting our everyday places, and making our towns better to live in and easier to visit.”
Federal Member for Dunkley, Jodie Belyea, said the Federal Government is investing in the community, building a more connected Frankston.
“We’re making it easier for families and students to get around Frankston safely.”
