Council is building a new active transport corridor stretching from Beacon Hill to St Ives, connecting local communities with a 9.2km shared path.
The $7.2 million Pipeline Active Transport Corridor will provide walkers and cyclists with a wider, safer way to travel between Northern Beaches suburbs.
Starting at Beacon Hill, the corridor connects the Northern Beaches with the Ku-ring-gai Council local government area, with an off-road path running alongside the Sydney water pipeline corridor.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said the active transport corridor will encourage healthier, more environmentally-friendly transport options.
"The active transport corridor will provide wider and safer walking and cycling routes for the growing area of Frenchs Forest and connect the Northern Beaches to the Ku-ring-gai Council local government area," Mayor Regan said.
"We know Northern Beaches residents are seeking more active transport options to beat traffic, maintain healthy, active lifestyles and choose more sustainable transport options. Imagine a future where you leave the car at home, avoid parking and congestion, and enjoy a healthier, calmer commute to work or school on foot or bike."
The project will be completed in eight stages, with work currently underway on section six from Bantry Bay Road to Warringah Road, via Rangers Retreat Road Reserve, Reserve Rangers Retreat Road, and the Sydney Water pipeline. This stage is expected to be complete in early 2023.
Council is investigating lighting options along the corridor and will present options to local residents along the corridor for their feedback. The lighting will be low-intensity, solar-powered and wildlife-friendly.
The project is proudly funded by the NSW Government Places to Roam - Regional Trails Program to improve active transport on the Northern Beaches. Council will work with Ku-ring-gai Council to complete the works to St Ives.
Active transport is a major part of the Move - Northern Beaches Transport Strategy 2038, which sets councils policy directions for improving transport.
