The Allan Labor Government will deliver faster and safer trips for cyclists between the city and the inner west as the West Gate Tunnel Project commences construction of a new 2.5-kilometre cycling super-highway.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson today announced the first segment of the new veloway has been lifted into place, with the track set to be completely separated from traffic and suspended between Footscray Road and the new elevated road above – which will be the first of its kind in Australia.
Running between Shepherd Bridge in Footscray and the city side of Moonee Ponds Creek, the veloway will remove the need for cyclists to cross six intersections including busy port entries and exits – giving bike riders a safe, dedicated express off-road route to and from the CBD.
195 individual segments will be individually lifted to form the veloway’s suspended section and will weigh a total of 1,700 tonnes once complete.
The cycling super-highway will contain two lanes and be four metres wide – allowing for a safe environment for Melbourne’s growing number of cyclists.
The veloway is part of more than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded paths delivered by the West Gate Tunnel Project that will make it safer and easier for more people to cycle.
Various lane, walking and cycling path closures along Footscray Road will continue to complete these vital works as safely and quickly as possible – and motorists are advised to plan ahead and visit westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au.
The West Gate Tunnel Project will transform travel in Melbourne’s west, delivering a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge, while cutting congestion and taking 9,000 trucks local roads every day.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson
“The new elevated cycling super-highway above Footscray Road will be a game changer for cyclists in the West – giving cyclists a safer off-road route between the inner west and the city.”
“Cyclist safety is at the forefront of the veloway’s design – which will remove six intersections for bike riders between Footscray and Docklands.”
As stated by Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams
“The West Gate Tunnel Project is delivering more than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded paths to make it safer and easier for more people to cycle in Melbourne’s inner west.”
As stated by Member for Footscray Katie Hall
“The West Gate Tunnel Project will completely change the way we move around Melbourne’s west for the better and we thank people for their continued patience while we get on with these vital works.”
As stated by Member for Northern Metropolitan Sheena Watt
“These upgrades will deliver safer connections for our communities commuting between the city and the city – and will also encourage more people to jump on a bike!”
