Next stage of Kingston Cycleway revealed
The ACT Government has released the preliminary design for Stage 2B of the Kingston Cycleway, covering Wentworth Avenue between Eastlake Parade and Cunningham Street.
The community can inspect the design and speak with the project team at a pop-up event at Norgrove Park from 11 am to 1 pm this Saturday, 29 August.
The preliminary plans include:
a three-metre-wide shared path along the eastern side of Wentworth Avenue
changes to crossings at Eastlake Parade, Giles Street, Eyre Street, Dawes Street and Cunningham Street
a new pedestrian crossing at Gosse Street
removal of the right-turn slip lane at the Eastlake Parade traffic lights
changes to parking between Eyre Street and Cunningham Street, resulting in 20 fewer spaces
relocation of the Old Bus Depot Markets bus stop to the street side of the new path.
Pedal Power advocacy reflected in the design
Pedal Power is pleased that the current design places the relocated bus stop between the road and the new path, as we advocated during discussions with the project team.
This means the path should not run between waiting passengers and buses, helping to reduce a predictable conflict point and create a clearer journey for people walking, riding and catching public transport.
It is a good example of why detailed consultation matters. Decisions that may appear small on a plan can make a significant difference to whether infrastructure feels safe and intuitive in practice.
A long-awaited connection
The Kingston Cycleway forms part of the C2 route connecting central Canberra with Queanbeyan. Stage 2A, between Bowen Drive and the Wentworth Avenue and Eastlake Parade intersection, is already under construction.
Pedal Power has advocated for the C2 route for many years. Executive Director Cecily Michaels said completing it would “help more people choose cycling for commuting, recreation and everyday journeys.”
However, we remain disappointed that the original Eastlake Parade alignment is no longer included. That route would have provided a more direct connection to the Lake Burley Griffin shared path network. We do not want that longer-term commitment to be lost.
The shared path must work for everyone
Pedal Power welcomes safer crossings and the removal of the slip lane, but the success of Stage 2B will ultimately depend on how well the shared path and intersections work.
A three-metre path must accommodate people walking, cycling and using mobility devices, including children, older people and less-confident riders. Clear priority, safe sightlines and intuitive connections will be essential, particularly at busy intersections.
We encourage everyone who rides, walks or lives in the area to inspect the design and ask:
How will conflicts be managed at intersections and driveways?
Will crossing priority be clear to every road and path user?
Will the path remain comfortably usable at busy times?
Are the connections suitable for riders of all ages and abilities?
Community pop-up
Saturday 29 August
11 am–1 pm
Norgrove Park, near Eastlake Parade and Eyre Street