A major investment in Ballarat’s active transport future has reached an important milestone, with construction now underway to fill missing links in the path network along the Glenelg Highway.
Member for Ballarat and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King was on site today with City of Ballarat Acting Mayor Cr Ben Taylor to mark the commencement of works, saying the accessible path would provide a new active transport link for locals.
“We want to ensure that people who don’t drive, or who want to leave the car at home, have safe and efficient ways to get around,” she said.
“For people out walking, parents with strollers, people on mobility scooters and cyclists, this new separated path will make the journey between DTC and the Yarrowee much safer and smoother.”
The project, which is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments, will deliver a 3.6 kilometre shared path and separated bike path along the Glenelg Highway between Delacombe Town Centre and the Yarrowee River.
“We’re making it easier and safer for people to walk, ride and stay active in our growing community,” Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison said.
“This new shared path from Sebastopol to Delacombe will improve connections between neighbourhoods, schools, services and recreational spaces.
“This project is a great example of cooperation between three levels of government, delivering better outcomes for our community. These new path connections will provide safer travel options and help create a more connected Ballarat for years to come.”
Works include shared user path raised crossings, upgrades to existing crossings, safer signalised crossings of the Glenelg Highway, drainage improvements, bus stop accessibility upgrades, landscaping, tree planting and the installation of seating and refuge nodes along the route.
Acting Mayor for the City of Ballarat, Cr Ben Taylor said it was exciting to see construction underway.
“Today marks an important milestone for this transformational project and for active transport in Ballarat,” Cr Taylor said.
“As Ballarat continues to grow, this type of infrastructure is critical to creating healthy, connected and sustainable communities, and we’re delighted to see works now underway.”
Cr Taylor also acknowledged the contribution from the Australian and Victorian Governments to bring the project to life.
“It’s a testament to what we can achieve when all levels of government work together,” he said.
