Byron Shire Council has been awarded $230,000 design funding for three new shared paths in Bangalow and Byron.
Funded under the Transport for NSW Get NSW Active program, the projects include shared paths on Lighthouse Road leading to the Byron Bay lighthouse, as well as Raftons and Lismore Roads in Bangalow.
Council's Infrastructure Services Director, Phil Holloway, said the funding will support the design stage of the projects and will be undertaken in consultation with the community and stakeholders.
He said the design phase will take around twelve months and start in early 2023.
The shared paths were priority projects identified in Council's 10 Year Bike Plan and 10 year Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan.
They will improve neighbourhood walkability, cycling and link key town centres to outlying areas.
Mayor Michael Lyon said shared paths are a great way to create vibrant towns and support residents' health and wellbeing.
"Shared paths give people an alternative way to get to town and around their neighbourhoods - and walking, riding and rolling gets people of all ages out and about in the fresh air," Mayor Lyon said.
"These paths also create an alternative mode of transport to the car which supports Council's desire to have less cars and more people in our towns and villages," he said.
Once the designs have been completed, Council will apply for grants to fund the construction of the paths.
The Transport for NSW Get NSW Active funding program invests in projects that support safe, easy and enjoyable walking and cycling trips.
