McGowan Government takes cycling investment up a gear in State Budget

  • State Budget includes more than $146 million for cycling projects and grants
  • More than 150km of new cycle path in planning or under construction
  • Planning starts for new cycle paths along Roe Highway, Tonkin Highway and Fremantle Traffic Bridge replacement project
  • Construction of Principal Shared Paths (PSP) along Fremantle train line and Mitchell Freeway continue
  • The McGowan Government's 2019-20 State Budget has allocated more than $146 million to expand Western Australia's cycling network by at least 150 kilometres.

    With several major cycle projects nearing completion, the McGowan Government has continued its commitment to plan and build a safe, integrated and accessible cycling and walking network.

    Over the next four years, over $55 million will be used on cycle paths related to new major road projects, including the current projects underway to close gaps on Mitchell and Kwinana Freeway PSPs.

    PSPs will also be delivered as part of newly announced road projects, such as the replacement of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge and upgrades to Roe Highway and Tonkin Highway.

    Meanwhile, more than $64 million has been allocated towards a program of retrofitting other PSPs throughout Perth and WA.

    When these projects are complete, along with those along the Fremantle and Midland Railway, this will complete the interconnected network of pathways extending 15 kilometres from the Perth central business district.

    To ensure continuity and to provide enhanced recreational, commuter and tourism cycling experiences, nearly $27 million will be available for the planning, design and construction of local bicycle infrastructure, including safe active streets.

    As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    "Cycle paths are an essential part of WA's integrated transport network and the McGowan Government is committed to providing safe and continuous riding and walking facilities to the community.

    "This is why we have more than 150km of new cycle path either in development or under construction. Further grants to local governments will enable even more path to be constructed.

     

    "In 2019-20 we look forward to the completion of the Grant Street to Victoria Station PSP and the commencement of pre-construction works for the Victoria Station to North Fremantle PSP, both along the Fremantle Railway line.

    "In addition, the Glendalough Station to Hutton Street PSP alongside Mitchell Freeway will be completed and opened, with a bridge over Scarborough Beach Road near the station that separates bicycle riders from walkers.

    "Completion of these projects will remove missing links and the potential for cyclists to mix with road traffic, encouraging more people to enjoy the benefits of active transport."

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