The Greens have secured $150 million over the next decade for active transport across 5 councils in Melbourne.
The Cities of Melbourne, Yarra, Stonnington, Port Philip and Merri-Bek will all receive the funding.
Thanks to the Greens MPs in Victorian Parliament, for the first time, the state government will be required under law to share a proportion of the congestion levy with local councils, bringing in a $15m yearly boost to councils for active and sustainable transport projects like bike lanes and accessible access to train stations each year.
Spending a portion of the expanded congestion levy on active transport has also been independently backed by Infrastructure Victoria.
As stated by Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell.
"You should be able to ride, walk or catch public transport to work safely - but we need better infrastructure to make active transport a safe and accessible choice.
"Too many pedestrians and cyclists have died or been seriously injured on our roads. This $150 million, secured by the Greens, is exactly what our city needs to make riding, walking and public transport safer and more accessible.
"Thriving cities across the world like Singapore and London are prioritising reducing car use and making riding and walking safer and more accessible. Here in Melbourne, we should be proud to be doing the same."
As stated by Victorian Greens active transport spokesperson, Tim Read:
"More bike lanes and safer, more accessible footpaths means fewer cars on the road, less pollution and healthier people. "
As stated by Merri-bek Bicycle Users Group spokesperson, Faith Hunter:
"Merri-bek BUG are very happy to see this funding secured for active transport. Making active transport safer and more accessible to more people has so much impact; from happier, healthier and more connected communities to easing congestion and reducing transport emissions."
