Saddle up! Safer bike riding in Goondiwindi
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15 October 2018
Saddle up! Safer bike riding in Goondiwindi
Bike riding in Goondiwindi is now safer and more connected thanks to the completion of a new link in the Principal Cycle Network Plan.
The new 576m section of shared footpath runs along McLean Street from Winton Street to Callandoon Lane.
It connects the existing bicycle network to important community facilities within the CBD, including schools, Goondiwindi Hospital and Goondiwindi Medical Centre.
Mayor Graeme Scheu hopes the continued construction of safe off-road cycle routes within the town will encourage more people to consider riding a bike to their destination.
“We already know that Goondiwindi is the most liveable regional town in Queensland, and Council’s investment in bicycle infrastructure and other healthy community initiatives really demonstrates its commitment to that vision,” Cr Scheu said.
“Investing in bicycle infrastructure reaps financial, environmental and health benefits. A well-connected bicycle network in our region answers to current demands and invests in the future of our friendly, active community.”
Councillor Rick Kearney acknowledged the Queensland Government’s contribution to the project through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants program (CNLGG), which helps local governments to deliver ‘more cycling, more often’.
“Goondiwindi Regional Council was allocated 50% co-contribution funding through the CNLGG to provide safe cycleways as an additional green mode of transport to work, school or for recreation,” Cr Kearney said.
“I’m also very pleased to announce that Council has secured additional funding under the 2018/19 CNLGG program to deliver a further 480 m of shared cycle routes.”
“These will be on McLean Street between Bowen Street and the Macintyre River Walk; Riddle Street between Lagoon Street and Darling Street; and Sandhurst Street between Francis Street and Russell Street.
“We receive many positive comments about the bicycle network within our region and about how easy it is to ride or walk.
“It’s so important in a regional town such as ours to ensure direct, affordable access to community facilities.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government was committed to improving safety and accessibility for bike riders across the state and was proud to continue developing the principal cycle network in regional areas.
“We know that, on average, every dollar we invest in bicycle infrastructure will return nearly five dollars in economic benefit to Queensland with improved health outcomes, reduced traffic congestion and lower transport costs,” Mr Bailey said.
“We have committed more than $360,000 to three projects in Goondiwindi over the last three years and look forward to working with council to continue to develop the principal cycle network in their region.”