Queenslanders including locals of Kedron can look forward to a safer and better biking experience now that the works for North Brisbane Bikeway Stages 2 and 3 have begun.
Stages 2 and 3 will deliver the 1.7-kilometre bike path from Somerset Street in Albion to Rigby Street in Wooloowin.
In addition to the bike path, it will feature six priority crossings at a number of intersections along the bikeway on Bowen Street, Grafton Street, Albion Road, Bridge Street, Merehaye Street and Rigby Street.
The crossings, which will operate similarly to pedestrian ‘zebra’ crossings, will consist of a raised platform and coloured road surface to identify give way areas and the cycle crossing.
Vehicles will be provided ample space to allow them to stop safely, clear of the crossing.
Locals can also expect to see upgraded street lighting and drainage as well as new landscaping as part of the Stages 2 and 3 development.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey inspected the start of work on the stages two and three, along with local bicycle users.
“More than 800,000 Queenslanders ride their bike each week. That’s why we’re investing more than $240 million over the next four years to deliver much-needed projects like the North Brisbane Bikeway alongside our 10-year state-wide cycling action plan,” Mr Bailey said in a media statement.
Mr Bailey noted how the Stage 1 of the North Brisbane Bikeway has been popular among bike riders and locals, as it created a safe link between the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital to the north of Bowen Hills.
He believes the two stages will deliver the same benefits through Wooloowin and hopes it will encourage more people to give bike riding a try.
The second and third stages of the $13.18 million project is anticipated to create more than 40 jobs while its construction is expected to complete early 2020.