A new Principal Shared Path (PSP) along the eastern side of Mitchell Freeway will fill a gap for cyclists and pedestrians and provide a safer, uninterrupted journey into the Perth CBD.
Decmil Southern Pty Ltd has been awarded a $23.3 million contract for construction of the path, which will run along the Mitchell Freeway southbound, linking Reid Highway in Balcatta with Civic Place in Stirling.
The project includes an 80 metre underpass at Karrinyup Road, meaning pedestrians and cyclists will no longer need to interact with traffic at the busy location.
As part of the project, upgrades will also be undertaken at the busy intersection of Karrinyup Road and Cedric Street.
The right turn pocket on Karrinyup Road into Cedric Street will be almost doubled on the eastern approach with the left turn pocket extended to 80 metres, preventing traffic bank up at the intersection.
Pedestrian crossing facilities through the intersection will be upgraded to include the installation of two zebra crossings improving safety for riders and pedestrians.
Major construction will commence later this year and when complete, the PSP will provide cyclists and pedestrians with a safe journey between Balcatta and Stirling, and better access in and out of the Perth CBD.
The PSP builds on the successful completion of the path along the Mitchell Freeway between Hutton Street and Glendalough Station in 2020.
This is part of the McGowan Government’s program to expand cycling and pedestrian infrastructure with a record $265 million allocated over the next four years.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The new path between Civic Place and Reid Highway will close a key gap along the Mitchell Freeway, linking the Stirling community to the Perth CBD.
“Since the opening of the Principal Shared Path between Hutton Street and Glendalough Station in late 2020, we’ve seen a 50 per cent increase in trips, and we expect more growth when the new path is opened.
“We have invested a record $265 million over the next four years in cycling and walking infrastructure, with major projects including the Roe Street revitalisation in Northbridge and the Swan River Causeway Bridge.
“It’s the perfect time of year for people to jump on their bikes and explore some of the new bike paths around Perth.”
As stated by Balcatta MLA David Michael:
“Stirling and Balcatta are booming communities, so it makes a lot of sense to have a cycle network that connects to the Perth CBD.
“We have a number of major projects underway locally that will improve safety and help ease congestion, including the Stephenson Avenue extension.
“I look forward to seeing this Principal Shared Path begin construction later this year.”
