Pedal Power welcomes Assembly support for active travel
This week, the ACT Legislative Assembly passed a motion supporting expanded active and electric transport initiatives, reflecting growing interest in practical ways to reduce transport costs as fuel prices and interest rate pressures continue to rise.
The motion, introduced by Andrew Braddock MLA, calls for support for cargo bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters, along with trials of low-cost pop-up cycle lanes across Canberra.
Pedal Power ACT has welcomed the discussion, saying the motion recognises the important links between transport affordability, congestion reduction, public health and climate action.
The organisation particularly welcomed proposals to extend the Sustainable Household Scheme to include cargo bikes, noting that cargo bikes and e-bikes are practical alternatives to second cars for many households, especially for local trips, shopping and school drop-offs.
Pedal Power also strongly supports trials of temporary pop-up cycle lanes to test demand for safer and more connected cycling routes.
International experience has consistently shown that when safe cycling infrastructure is introduced, more people choose to ride. Pop-up cycle lanes also provide governments with a relatively low-cost and flexible way to trial infrastructure before committing to permanent changes.
Pedal Power has indicated it is keen to work constructively with the ACT Government on how the motion could be put into action, including identifying suitable locations where temporary infrastructure improvements could improve safety, reduce congestion and support more people to choose active travel for everyday trips.
Members and advocates have already identified several potential locations where pop-up lanes could be explored, including parts of Northbourne Avenue, Flemington Road, Brisbane Avenue and key routes through Belconnen and Woden.
The organisation believes Canberra is particularly well placed to lead nationally in active and electric transport due to its relatively short trip distances, extensive shared path network and strong community interest in cycling and micromobility.
While financial incentives can help people make the switch to cleaner and cheaper transport, Pedal Power says long-term success depends on continuing to build safe, connected and convenient cycling infrastructure that makes active travel an easy everyday choice.
