A new network of bike paths spanning 45 kilometres will roll out across the city with an anticipated completion date in 2019.
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It follows Wagga City Council’s resolution to accept a $11 million funding offer from the NSW government to develop and implement the Active Travel Plan - Cycling at Monday night’s ordinary council meeting.
During the meeting, council voted unanimously in favour of the funding, which begins with a $400,000 grant to develop the ATP.
Cr Dan Hayes was the only councillor who provided comment.
Speaking in favour of the decision, Cr Hayes said it was great to receive these funds and recommended some funding to be used to research the reduction of general car use across Wagga.
The Active Travel Plan, which represents one element of Wagga’s Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040, has a recommended network incorporating five key links.
Initial plans recommended over 100 kilometres of ‘cycleways’ be built, however the revised ATP identified a 45 kilometre network as more suitable, financially sustainable and manageable.
The five proposed links are listed as being Central Link (commencing Bourkelands), Kapooka Link (commencing Kapooka) Forest Hill Link (commencing Forest Hill), South Link (commencing Lake Albert), and North Link (commencing CSU).
The proposed Central Link will pass through Tolland, Mount Austin, Turvey Park and will include links to Calvary Private Hospital and Wagga Base Hospital.
The planned Kapooka Link will connect Ashmont shopping Centre and Northside Shopping Complex while North and South links provide passage to Wagga Beach, Baylis Street ans Apex Park.
Meanwhile, Forest Hill Link acts as a conduit for outer suburbs, such a Forest Hill and Gumly Gumly.
Three end of trip facilities including caged areas for bike security and CCTV have been proposed for central locations (health precinct, Bolton Park, Civic Centre), however, Cr Hayes argued in favour of more facilities at points of origin.
Local MP Daryl Maguire voiced his support in a statement.
“The provision of safe options for community members who cycle as a form of transport is a good direction to follow with the many associated health benefits being derived from exercise and outdoor activities,” he said.