Time is running out for locals and visitors to have their say on a new cycleway in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.
There is only a few days left for people to provide feedback on revised designs for Stage 6 of the proposed 6km Mooloolaba to Maroochydore Cycleway.
Stage 6 includes a 1.2km shared pathway between Mary Street at Alexandra Headland and Sixth Avenue at Maroochydore.
The plans incorporate possible additions and changes to paths, car parks, median strips, slip lanes, pedestrian crossings and bus stops.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the revised designs had incorporated valuable community feedback and he wanted the community to share their thoughts.
“More Queenslanders than ever before are choosing to get active,” Mr Bailey said.
“To encourage this, we continue to listen to the feedback of the community and build the active infrastructure requested as a top priority.
“This commitment is demonstrated by the $252 million the Palaszczuk Government plans to invest over four years to design, build, and maintain cycling infrastructure and fund programs to encourage people to use it.
“We’ve built pathways from Brisbane to Logan, along the Bruce Highway, and have one in construction from Gordonvale to Cairns.
“We look forward to what we can build for the people of Maroochydore.
“I encourage anyone who has not yet seen the revised designs for Stage 6 of the Mooloolaba to Maroochydore (M2M) cycleway and completed the short survey, to do so today.
“By completing the survey, you are letting us know which features should progress to the next design stage.
“This is an opportunity for you to influence what happens at this iconic Sunshine Coast location and thank you to everyone who has taken the time to submit feedback so far.”
Bicycle Queensland Director of Advocacy Andrew Demack said the project, being delivered by Transport and Main Roads (TMR), would provide people walking and riding bikes with space to travel safely and comfortably through the area.
“This is a local facility the community will enjoy and support and the only way to get that local support is to engage with the community, which TMR North Coast has done really well,” Mr Demack said.
Beach Matters Group president Rach Bermingham said being involved in developing the revised options alongside TMR was a rewarding experience.
“TMR has set a different standard in community consultation on the M2M design by drawing in the community, being transparent and authentic with their communication and engaging us,” Ms Bermingham said.
“Being invested in this project with TMR has been such an amazing opportunity for the community.
“It enabled us to give our thoughts on how we use the area and come up with solutions that will benefit all user groups.
“The way that TMR has done the community engagement on this project has been second to none and they are listening.”
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TMR North Coast Regional Director Scott Whitaker said the project formed part of an integrated active transport solution suitable for all users.
“We heard really strongly from the community that green space was important, and people wanted us to make sure there were no barriers to the beach, keep as much beachside parking as possible, but also make sure the solution blends in with the local environment,” Mr Whitaker said.
The cycleway is being constructed in seven stages as funding becomes available.
The Queensland Government has allocated $1.5 million to Stage 6.
Stage 2, from Amarina Avenue to Foote Street at Mooloolaba, has already been completed while planning is underway for the other stages.
Other works in the area include $320 million Sunshine Motorway Mooloolah Interchange Upgrade, Stage 1, and the $301.25 million Maroochydore Road and Mons Road Interchange Upgrade, in construction.
Consultation closes Friday, April 22. To review the revised design options and complete the survey, visit Mooloolaba to Maroochydore Cycleway – Stage 6.
