A study has found an elevated bikeway will be an expensive option for separating bike riders and pedestrians along the redeveloped Queens Wharf riverfront.
The feasibility study commissioned by the Palaszczuk Government looked at what infrastructure would be needed to separate pedestrians and bike riders for the key CBD active transport connection.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the study had also considered options for separating bike riders and pedestrians in shared sections around the new development.
“The Bicentennial Bikeway needs to change due to the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane development,” Mr Bailey said.
“This study included engineering assessments and discussions with stakeholders to determine whether an elevated section of the bikeway could be included in the upgrade.
“The study suggested an elevated bikeway less than one kilometre long over Queen’s Wharf could cost nearly $200 million, and even then not necessarily deliver what stakeholders want.
“Building this proposed elevated bikeway would require us to use the bulk of the $240 million the Palaszczuk Government has committed to bike riding infrastructure investments across Queensland over the next four years.”
CEO of Bicycle Queensland Anne Savage supported the decision.
“Ultimately any solution needs to represent good value for money for taxpayers and guarantee a safe and seamless option for cyclists,” Ms Savage said.
“The proposal for an elevated section of bikeway failed on all counts.
“We look forward to continuing consultation with the government and other stakeholders to identify solutions that truly do benefit cyclists and offer community benefit by helping us to further reduce congestion and promote community health.”
Mr Bailey said further investigations would now be conducted to explore other options to benefit cyclists using the area once Queens Wharf is constructed.
“These findings show exactly why we need to conduct feasibility studies and carefully plan,” he said.
“Clearly, an elevated bikeway is not a cost effective option so we will continue to work closely with bicycle user groups and other regular users with an interest in the future of the Bicentennial Bikeway to create a viable long-term solution.”
Further investigations are expected to be completed by mid-2019.
