Construction on a new active transport route linking Charlestown to Whitebridge and the Fernleigh Track has begun.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz and Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison today turned the first sod on a $2.2 million section of the Charlestown to Whitebridge Transport Infrastructure Corridor Upgrade at Flaggy Creek, which will include about 175m of shared path and boardwalk between Milson Street and Kaleen Street.
This first section of stage one will complement future works, subject to funding, which include building 1.45km of walking and cycling links along Milson Street, Kaleen Street, Flaggy Creek and the Guna Street intersection in Charlestown.
These future sections will also involve road rehabilitation, widening and drainage improvements.
"This project was identified as a priority in Council's Cycling and Better Streets Strategy 2021 and the Charlestown Development Contributions Plan, and refined by community feedback," Mayor Adam said.
"A direct, safe, accessible shared path in this area meets Council's goal of prioritising walking, cycling and public transport over other modes of mobility in and around economic centres."
This section of the multi-staged project will be made up of shared paths and split cyclist and pedestrian offerings, with a shared bridge and boardwalk over Flaggy Creek.
Transport for NSW has provided $1.83 million under the Get Active NSW program toward this section of works, while Council is contributing $370,000.
Ms Harrison said it was the start of an exciting development for Charlestown to offer enhanced walking, assisted mobility and cycling opportunities that connect to the broader Principal Bicycle Network.
"These routes are more than just pathways – they're vital infrastructure promoting physical and mental wellbeing, reducing pollution, easing traffic congestion and strengthening local economies," she said.
"By providing safe, convenient ways for people to move, exercise and connect with their community, we're enhancing the quality of life for residents throughout our city."
This milestone marks the official start of plans for a larger 2.7km transport infrastructure corridor (stages 1 and 2) aiming to connect Charlestown to the Lake Macquarie active transport network.
Council has proactively planned the route to enable grant applications for the relevant stages, ensuring it's ready to progress once funding is secured.
The complete route in the future could connect four schools, the Charlestown economic centre, Charlestown swim centre, sporting fields and more.
