By Jena Carr
The Surf Coast will soon explore options for a safe cycling link between Torquay and Geelong, thanks to state government funding.
Surf Coast Shire and the City of Greater Geelong councils both received $30,000 grants from the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) Local Government Grant Program for the cycling link.
Surf Coast Shire’s placemaking and environment general manager Chris Pike said the project would focus on high-risk routes along the Surf Coast Highway and Horseshoe Bend Road.
Mr Pike said he thanked the state government for the funding and looked forward to working with the City of Greater Geelong.
“Our Safer Cycling Strategy consultation told us that there was a desire for region-wide cycling connections,” he said.
“This includes from Bellbrae, Jan Juc and Torquay to Armstrong Creek, Geelong, and Waurn Ponds, a popular route for commuters and recreational riders who currently use the Surf Coast Highway.
“We hope this work will identify one or more preferred options for a future infrastructure project that will benefit the region and provide active transport opportunities.”
Projects funded through the grant program must use Safe System principles, which focus on reducing crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists, the most vulnerable to trauma on the road.
The Safe System is a holistic approach to road safety that recognises different elements of the road environment, like vehicles and travel speeds, that must work together for everyone’s safety.
TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said improving road safety across the state was important to protect “vulnerable road users”.
“This grant program supports local governments to find solutions to specific road safety concerns in their region,” she said.
The grant program will reopen for applications in June. Visit tac.vic.gov.au/local-government-grants for more information.
