Faster and safer trips for cyclists between the city and the inner west are being promised as the West Gate Tunnel Project commences construction of a new 2.5-kilometre cycling super-highway.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson 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.
Previously described as a “space-age, high speed tube” for cyclists, the veloway will run between Shepherd Bridge in Footscray and the city side of Moonee Ponds Creek, removing 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 lifted to form the veloway’s suspended section and will weigh a total of 1,700 tonnes once complete.
The cycling super-highway will be caged on the sides and 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 providing a continuous journey from Werribee to the city 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 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,” Mr Pearson said
“Cyclist safety is at the forefront of the veloway’s design – which will remove six intersections for bike riders between Footscray and Docklands,” he said.
The state government claims 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.
