Cyclists Raise Safety Concerns After Cotter Road Rumble Strip Installation
After multiple Pedal Power members raised concerns about newly installed rumble strips along Cotter Road, Pedal Power President Joe Murphy met with ABC Canberra reporter Mary Goode to discuss the issue and its potential impact on cyclist safety.
The concerns first emerged after riders noticed rumble strips had been installed along sections of the shoulder heading towards the Cotter pumping station. Members contacted Pedal Power, questioning why the strips had been placed just inside the white line, reducing already limited shoulder space on one of Canberra’s most popular recreational cycling routes.
We had no prior knowledge of the installation and have now asked for clarification about the works with ACT Government officials to better understand the rationale behind the works and whether the impact on cyclists was considered.
Cotter Road has long been a well-used route for Canberra riders, particularly during early mornings and weekends, with cyclists regularly travelling between Stromlo, Uriarra and the Cotter. The route is formally recognised by the ACT Government as a common cycling corridor, with multiple roadside signs reminding motorists to expect cyclists in the area.
That recognition has made the installation particularly frustrating for many riders who say the shoulder had previously provided an important buffer between themselves and passing traffic.
Speaking with the ABC, Joe said that roads such as Cotter Road need to remain shared spaces that are safe for all users.
“The installation of the rumble strips has now made it more unsafe for cyclists and motorists,” he said. “Effectively, riders are being pushed further into the traffic lane where previously the shoulder may have been available.”
Following Pedal Power’s public callout for feedback, dozens of riders shared their experiences and concerns. Many said they would previously ride on or near the shoulder, where possible, but now feel forced closer to traffic as the strips create a riding hazard.
Long-time rider Michael described the changes as “a poor outcome for a stretch of road that’s so popular with cyclists,” explaining that he now rides closer to traffic than he previously would.
Other members questioned whether the works reflected a broader lack of consideration for cyclists on major riding routes, while several pointed to the need for longer-term infrastructure improvements such as wider shoulders or separated cycling facilities between Stromlo and the Cotter.
Not all community feedback opposed the installation. Some commenters argued the rumble strips may improve driver safety by reducing fatigue-related crashes, while others suggested riders should avoid the route altogether. The discussion also reignited broader debate around how Canberra roads can safely accommodate both motorists and cyclists.
Pedal Power says it will continue advocating for safer conditions for people riding on Cotter Road while seeking further information from government agencies about the decision-making process behind the installation.
In the meantime, the organisation is encouraging patience and awareness from all road users.
“As we seek to resolve this issue, Pedal Power asks that motorists have patience around cyclists who choose to ride on the road and that cyclists remain aware of their surroundings and give motorists every opportunity to overtake them safely,” Joe said.
“We can share the road.”
