One hundred kilometres of new and improved cycling routes are to be delivered across key inner-Melbourne suburbs to make it safer for people cycling to and from the CBD.
Announced by the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll, works are to be delivered in the coming months and are expected to provide a boost to the economy by creating over 40 local jobs.
“With more people expected to use cars to get around, this $13 million investment will deliver pop-up lanes to help relieve congestion and provide an alternative to public transport for those living closer to the CBD,” Mr Carroll said.
“Planning for the routes is underway with signage, road markings and barriers used to create the pop-up improvements to cycle lanes, off-road paths and crossing points,” he said.
“The changes will improve travel options from inner-Melbourne areas such as Footscray, Northcote and St Kilda.”
Mr Carroll said Victoria would also introduce mandatory minimum passing distances next year to improve cyclist safety and ensure passing distance rules were clear and consistent across State lines.
“When introduced in 2021, the regulatory change would make it mandatory for motorists to give cyclists at least one metre clearance when overtaking on roads with speed limits up to 60km/h, and 1.5 metres on roads with speed limits above 60km/h,” the Minister said.
