Murrumbidgee Advocacy Digest
Pedal Power's Murrumbidgee advocacy team continues to work with government agencies, developers, planners and elected representatives to improve conditions for people riding, walking and wheeling across Canberra's south-west.
Key Updates Across Murrumbidgee
Woden to Civic Bikeway
In May, members of the Murrumbidgee team met with ACT Government officials on site to examine the route for the first stage of the proposed separated Woden to Civic Bikeway between Kent Street and the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, utilising the Adelaide Ave, State Circuit west and Flynn Dr corridor.
While construction funding has not yet been secured, a feasibility study has been completed, and Pedal Power continues to advocate for funding to progress detailed planning and construction. We are also encouraging the government to progress the project independently of the light rail to avoid unnecessary delays.
North Curtin (horse paddocks) and Woden Town Centre
Pedal Power lodged a submission on the proposed North Curtin residential development, reinforcing the NCA emphasis on good active travel connections, particularly to the Yamba Dr bike lane and the Curtin shared path network.
Advocates have also continued engaging with major developments in the Woden Town Centre. Submissions have focused on path connections, sightlines, active travel access and bicycle parking. A particular success has been the Woden Village development, where discussions with the developer resulted in three residential buildings incorporating secure, easy-to-access bicycle storage rooms separate from vehicle parking areas.
Planning for a Growing Woden
Pedal Power's submission to the Legislative Assembly Inquiry into the Future of the Woden Town Centre highlighted the need for active travel infrastructure to keep pace with rapid residential growth.
Similarly, our submission on the proposed Wesley affordable housing development in Curtin called for improved connections to the C4 corridor and safer crossings on Launceston Street and Carruthers Street to ensure future residents can travel safely without relying on a car.
Better Connections to Southlands
Pedal Power continues to support community efforts to improve the path connection between Southlands Shopping Centre and the path to Farrer.
The need for an improved link remains a longstanding issue for local residents and would provide a safer and more convenient route for people walking, riding and wheeling between key destinations in the area.
Yarralumla Creek Bridge Repairs
The cycling bridge over Yarralumla Creek in Curtin has remained closed since sustaining significant storm damage earlier this year. We are now advised that the bridge will reopen in late July.
Other Advocacy Projects
A range of additional projects remains active across Murrumbidgee:
Coombs Active Travel Bridge has progressed to construction tenders, with Pedal Power advocating for a more accessible gradient and improved lighting.
The North Woden Feasibility Study is examining opportunities to improve walking and cycling connections around Launceston Street and surrounding areas.
The Stromlo to Cotter Mountain Bike Trail continues through detailed design and approvals.
