Whether you like an early morning run, leisurely stroll or prefer pedal power, the Mooloolaba Walk and Ride Bridge is your dedicated route into the heart of the popular beachside location.
December marks one year since the $5.15 million bridge officially opened, co-funded by Sunshine Coast Council and the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 4 Councillor John Connolly said in the first full year just over 125,000 pedestrians and cyclists were counted using the bridge.
“We opened the bridge ahead of the summer holidays and peak tourism time, so the busiest months have been December 2018 and January 2019, which we expect to see again this month and in the new year,” Cr Connolly said.
“Overall weekends account for about one third of the use and weekdays two thirds, with pedestrians making up 82 per cent of all users and cyclists 18 per cent.
“Sunday is the busiest day of the week for both pedestrians and cyclists, with Tuesdays and Thursdays being quieter days.
“We see peak usage by pedestrians in the early part of the morning and from mid-afternoon onward, while cyclists peak in the morning.”
The five-metre wide bridge spans a section of the Mayes Canal between Bindaree Crescent and River Esplanade and connects the two previous stages of the region’s flagship separated bikeway and adjacent coastal pathways.
During the upgrade, the parkland areas on either side of the bridge were enhanced with new seating, shelters, trees and plants.
The bridge and approaching pathways incorporate smart technology and LED lighting, including a pedestrian/bicycle counter.
Cr Connolly said the Mooloolaba Walk and Ride Bridge had been a hit with locals and visitors alike.
“It’s a safer way to explore our beautiful area and embrace our active outdoor lifestyle,” he said.
“It was architecturally designed to reflect its location and significance within the Mooloolaba landscape.
“Different users experience different vistas, whether crossing the bridge, viewing from Brisbane Road or from the adjacent parkland.”
The Mooloolaba Walk and Ride Bride was also recently recognised as best in class, winning the $2 million to $5 million project category at the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) Awards.
The Mooloolaba Walk and Ride Bridge is one of many Mooloolaba infrastructure projects Sunshine Coast Council, the State and Federal governments are investing in to create a wold-class destination for residents and visitors to enjoy including:
• $18 million Brisbane Road Car Park redevelopment
• $2.5 million Mooloolaba Boardwalk replacement
Coming soon
• Mooloolaba Foreshore revitalisation
• Mooloolaba Transport Corridor upgrade
Image: Mooloolaba Walk and Ride Bridge – credit Rezolution Photography and Alder Constructions.
