Footpaths and shared paths funded across Northern Rivers

FOUR Northern Rivers communities are among dozens across regional NSW set to benefit from a $50 million investment in active transport infrastructure.

The state government has funded 40 new community infrastructure projects aimed at encouraging people to walk and ride instead of sitting in traffic.

The funding will support the construction of safer and more accessible bike paths, shared paths, footpaths and pedestrian crossings.

Minister for roads and regional transport Jenny Aitchison said the upgrades would improve health and wellbeing while reducing congestion.

“Active transport is a huge part of that – contributing to health and wellbeing, and reducing traffic congestion,” Aitchison said.

“Our regional communities deserve better than paths to nowhere, dodgy pavement and inaccessible facilities.

“This funding will benefit dozens of regional communities.”

In Byron Bay, $1.3 million has been allocated to the Lighthouse Road Footpath Connection project, which will deliver an 842-metre path from the corner of Brooke Drive and Lighthouse Road to connect to the existing footpath at Cape Byron State Conservation Park.

Three Lismore projects have been funded, including the $2.3 million six-metre-wide Lismore Boulevard through Lismore Park, which will link the CBD with the health precinct, transport and recreational areas.

The $360,000 Dibbs Street School to Hospital project will provide a vital link between Lismore Public School and Lismore Base Hospital.

The $807,000 North Lismore Connections project will deliver safe pathways linking residents with the CBD, sporting fields, showgrounds and the new high school.

In Murwillumbah, a $166,000 upgrade will install three raised pedestrian crossings on Queensland Road to improve safety and accessibility.

Kyogle will receive $3.3 million for a shared path linking Geneva with the town’s football fields, golf course, community gym and showgrounds, and $425,000 for a new footpath outside Wiangaree Public School.

Minister for transport John Graham said the investment aimed to make active travel a practical and safe option.

“This is what Get NSW Active funding is all about – getting people out from behind the wheel of the car and walking or riding across their neighbourhoods to connect with friends, family or get to public transport,” Graham said.

“The benefits of regular walking and riding are enormous, and we are providing the infrastructure that encourages those to become a daily habit.”