By VANESSA VALENZUELA
BRIMBANK cyclists are on the right track with more than $1 million spent on bike infrastructure in the municipality, according to a new report.
Bicycle Network Australia revealed its 2012 Bicycle Expenditure Index (BiXE) last week which surveyed 100 councils across Australia.
Figures revealed Brimbank Council spent on average $5.83 per person on services such as dedicated bike paths, lanes and parking in 2011-12, slightly above the outer-zone council average of $5.65.
The report lists a new bike path between Harverster Rd and Anderson Rd in Sunshine and links to Parkiteer stations as Bicycle Victoria’s top priorities for Brimbank in the next financial year.
General Manager of Infrastructure and Environment Paul Younis said Brimbank Council is committed to ensuring the municipality has a compressive walking and cycling network.
“Brimbank City Council’s 2012-2013 budget continues its commitment to creating cycling networks that are safe and connect with other pathways, allocating $1.4 million to bike pathways across the municipality,” Mr Younis said.
He said council planned to use data collected from a recent rider log survey promotion conducted by Bicycle Network Victoria to support its commitment to enhance bike networks throughout Brimbank.
“The data logged will allow Brimbank to obtain graphical representation to better understand where cyclists of Brimbank and adjoining municipalities are currently riding. This will help Council to identify any missing gaps that we can connect and link to,” he said.
“It will also allow Council to identify frequently used routes that we can improve and make safer for future use, and will help Council identify where funding needs to be allocated for improvements.”
Mr Younis said council is committed to ensuring the municipality had a comprehensive cycling and walking network and investigate on-road routes to create better access for cyclists.
“Having alternative transport options to motor vehicles as well providing great cycling routes for the local community is a priority,” he said.
“If residents can cycle to work, to shops, to school to visit friends or for exercise then the liveability of this municipality will continue to improve.”
