The Federal Government will invest more than $17.6 million in eleven new active transport projects in New South Wales to encourage cyclists and pedestrians to move actively through their communities.
The funding will see new bicycle and walking paths built, as well as upgrades to existing paths, providing more opportunities to walk and cycle.
Lake Macquarie City Council will receive $1.3 million to construct a shared path from Soldiers Road to Lake Macquarie Airport via Pacific Highway. The approximately 280m of shared path is expected to provide the missing link between existing shared user paths and deliver improved road safety with a designated path for pedestrian and cyclists separate from traffic on the road.
Further north in Bellingen, $3.36 million will be invested to design and construct 2940m of shared paths and footpaths from South Urunga Urban Release Area to Urunga CBD. A favourite location for tourists and locals, the new paths will make the area safer and more accessible.
The Brewarrina Shire Council will receive $3 million for the design and construction of four pedestrian and cycle paths to connect the Brewarrina Township to the Barwon River. The project will also include solar-powered lighting, shaded rest areas and seating.
Other projects receiving funding include:
- More than $2 million for Blue Mountains City Council to construct a shared path from White Cross Road, Winmalee to Hawkesbury Heights Lookout
- $88,000 for Port Macquarie Hastings Council to construct a footpath at St Agnes Primary School
- $877,000 for Canterbury-Bankstown Council to design and construct a cycleway at Phillips Avenue, Canterbury
- $2.9 million for the Wilson Street West Cycleway in Newtown to be delivered by Transport for NSW
- $781,000 for Lake Macquarie City Council to design and construct a shared path in Cooranbong
- $1 million for the Goodooga Town Centre to Bore Baths Connection Project in Brewarrina
- $596,000 for the design and construction for a footpath and pedestrian crossings along Palace Street, Petersham
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 us.
This 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 2021–2030.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said, “From the Blue Mountains to Bellingen, we’re investing in active transport options right across New South Wales 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.”
Federal Member for Shortland, Pat Conroy, said, “This is about so much more than bike lanes and footpaths, it’s about increasing mobility for all our citizens. It will also improve safety and accessibility for the residents of Pelican and everyone who visits our beautiful part of the world.”
