With the Victorian State election on the near horizon the campaign to expand the Peninsula Trail is clicking up a gear.
Mornington Shire has listed the project as one of its top priorities for election commitments from the party contesting the election.
A classy advocacy video has been released and a campaign page has been established to amplify the message and channel them directly to the candidates.
Much of the proposed 100km Peninsula Trail is already in place.
To connect the missing links the shire needs $45 million from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments.
The shire has already committed $10 million to this project, the Victorian Government $3 million and the Commonwealth Government $4 million.
Mornington Shire has a big vision for the trail, which it sees as an iconic route known the world over, traversing coast and hinterland on the Peninsula.
Mayor Anthony Marsh said: “For our local community, the trail will create more connected towns and neighbourhoods - providing safe off-road options to walk or ride to school, work, the shops or a friend’s home. It will reduce our reliance on cars with environmental, health, and wellbeing benefits."
"The trail will not just be an asset to the Peninsula – it will be an attraction for visitors from everywhere to come to Victoria to walk, hike, cycle, and stay."
“The Peninsula Trail will offer exciting opportunities for eco-tourism and our vibrant food, wine and art scene.
"There will be opportunities for tours of cultural and historic sites, guided walks and cycling tours. There will also be many possibilities for the entrepreneurs in our community to build and grow their businesses."
It is estimated the Peninsula Trail will generate $111 million for the local economy and support 267 jobs during construction phase, providing a significant boost to our businesses.
The Shire also has an election ask for $50m for road improvements that will benefit people own bikes, including Upgrading four high-risk intersections – $25 million Pedestrian safety upgrades – $18 million Improvements to on-road cycling to reduce casualties – $7 million
It says these are current projects under development by the Department of Transport, but not yet funded for delivery.