The City of Cockburn’s cycling network could be getting a makeover after receiving a $1.07m stimulus grant from the federal government.
The grant was awarded as part of a federal stimulus package to help local governments kickstart shovel ready projects and keep employment alive during the COVID-19 period.
According to The Cockburn Gazette, Cockburn Chief Executive Daniel Arndt confirmed that the council would likely use the funding to upgrade the cycling network.
The council has projects in the pipeline under its 2016-2021 Cycling and Walking Network Plan which aims to combat congestion, environmental and health issues by encouraging more people to ride bicycles as part of their everyday travel.
The $6.8 million plan includes upgrades to on-road and community routes that will provide better connections throughout the city and increase safety.
The council will determine which routes will benefit from the funding when it confirms its 2020/21 budget.
Bicycle Network General Manager of Public Affairs, Anthea Hargreaves, said that this is welcome news for riders and people wanting to get back to work safely.
“As we ease out of lockdown, it’s now more important than ever for cities to have connected, accessible and attractive bike infrastructure that makes it easier for more people to ride,” said Ms Hargreaves.
“It’s great to see the federal government recognise that bike projects are an easy and sustainable way to create much-needed jobs and get more happy and healthy people moving.”
Bicycle Network recently released their Pedalling to a better normal plan which calls on decision makers to capitalise on the recent growth of bike riding and commit to building better places to ride as a way out of lockdown.
Click here it find out more about our Pedalling to a better normal plan.