Quad bikes hit Geelong footpaths for city-wide audit

QUAD bikes will hit the pavement in the coming weeks to audit the condition of the footpaths across Geelong and the Bellarine.

The specialist bikes, operated by a contractor, will use cameras to collect data on the condition of each footpath they travel on in the City of Greater Geelong, which will then be run through a software program to provide an overall condition score.

The quad bikes will travel the entirety of the city’s footpath network over a period of about eight weeks and will move at a brisk walking pace.

The vehicles are identifiable, with hazard lights and other measures in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

Geelong mayor Cr Stretch Kontelj said the cameras mounted on the quad bikes will capture images and assign condition scores that will help the city develop a plan to manage its 2400-kilometre footpath network into the future.

“Greater Geelong has an extensive footpath network, and it is important to have accurate data on its condition,” he said.

You Yangs Ward councillor Chris Burson thanked the community for its patience while the assessment takes place.

“This technology increases the consistency and accuracy of results, while being more efficient than manual inspection,” he said.

Footpath issues that require attention can also be reported to the City online at geelongaustralia.com.au/footpaths or by phone on 5272 5272.