The City of Ballarat will begin construction on the Macarthur Street Shared Path Project this week, delivering a safer and more accessible connection between Ballarat Station, Lake Wendouree and Wendouree Station.
The contract for the $812,000 project has been awarded to Central Vic Civil Pty Ltd, with funding support from both the Federal Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program ($500,000) and the City of Ballarat ($312,000).
The project will deliver a high-quality off-road shared path along the north side of Macarthur Street, addressing a key missing link between Routes 3 and 4 of the Ballarat Bicycle Network.
It will include:
• Raised shared user path crossings at Burnbank Street and Wendouree Parade
• New lighting to improve safety and visibility
• Approximately 60 street trees and landscape planting to enhance amenity and canopy coverage
• Defined parking bays for residents along the corridor
Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King said the new path is a welcome upgrade for the community, offering safer and more accessible options for getting around.
"This new shared user path along Macarthur Street will improve safety at the Burnbank Street roundabout and make it easier to ditch the car and stay active," she said.
"Whether you're pushing a stroller, taking the kids for a bike ride or just out for a walk, this path will mean better access and a better experience."
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the project reflects the Council's commitment to creating safer, greener, and more connected neighbourhoods.
"This is a vital link in our active transport network, and I'm thrilled to see it moving forward," she said.
"The new path will make it easier and safer for people of all ages to walk, ride, and move between key destinations like our train stations and Lake Wendouree."
Cr Hargreaves said the project was importantly shaped by community feedback conducted in 2024.
"We've listened to residents who use Macarthur Street daily and responded with a design that improves safety, accessibility, and amenity," she said.
"This is a great example of how we're delivering on our Cycling, Urban Forest, and Active Ballarat strategies."
The project is scheduled for completion by December 2025.
