Media release – Michael Ferguson, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, 15 November 2023
More bike paths on the way statewide
The Rockliff Liberal Government is working hard to improve transport options for Tasmanians by building better infrastructure around the State.
Cycling is set to get safer and easier around Tasmania with the announcement of successful projects under round 1 of the Better Active Transport in Tasmania Grant Program and the opening of round 2 of both the statewide and Greater Hobart cycling infrastructure grant programs.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, said the eight projects receiving funding were found right across the state in Clarence, Devonport, George Town, Kingborough, Launceston, Northern Midlands, Southern Midlands and Waratah-Wynyard.
“We recognise the role that improving our active transport infrastructure plays in shaping health, safety and well-being,” Mr Ferguson said.
“Since 2015, we have made direct investments of $15.5 million to active transport infrastructure projects.
“These eight new projects will see almost $6 million worth of cycling projects this financial year through this program alone.
“Following the success of round 1, we’re now opening round 2 of the Better Active Transport Grant Programs to the keep the momentum going.
“Our Greater Hobart Grant Program will help with the implementation of the Greater Hobart Cycling Plan and our state-wide Grant Program will assist councils in delivering key cycling infrastructure, such as the North West Coastal Pathway.
“These grant programs will improve active transport accessibility through enhanced amenity, ease of use and safety, enhancing the travel experience, leading to a greater number of people taking to bikes, scooters, skates, skateboards or running/walking.
“The more choice we build into our transport infrastructure, the more we can help reduce traffic congestion and vehicle operating costs, improving health and the environment.
“The Better Active Transport Grant Program is just one part of our commitment to promoting and enhancing active transport across the entire state,” Mr Ferguson said.
“These investments align with the recently released long-term transport masterplan for Hobart, Keeping Hobart Moving.
“The plan provides commuters with more choice, including a new Rapid Bus network, an expanded Derwent Ferry Network and more active transport options to reduce traffic congestion.
“It utilises our river, roads and bridges – and more cycleways – to provide commuters with an attractive alternative to private car use.”
Councils can apply for the Better Active Transport Grant Programs at www.infrastructure.tas.gov.au/policy_and_advice/active_transport
Round 2 of the grant programs will close January 2024.
Media release – Bicycle Network, 15 November 2023
Active transport grants help the choice to ride
Bicycle Network has welcomed the Tasmanian Government’s announcement today of active transport grant recipients across the state.
“Safer cycle paths to get people to work, school, shops and services are essential if we are going to give people transport choices,” Tasmanian spokesperson Alison Hetherington said.
“We know more people would ride for transport if there were more paths separated from traffic.
“The beauty of these grants are that they are targeted at All Ages and Abilities infrastructure to enable your 8-year-old son or 80-year-old grandmother feel comfortable riding.
“These active transport grants help us get to a Tasmania where riding can be a transport choice for more of us in more places.
“Regular state and federal funding for cycle paths is important if we are going to keep improving our transport options.
“We’d like to see the Active Transport Grants turned into an ongoing funding program so councils have the certainty of funding to plan ahead.
“It’s no secret we’d like to see more funding for cycle paths. Tasmania is behind a lot of other states and countries when it comes to providing safer places to ride so we need to catch up,” Alison said.
