Missing link in Brisbane’s bikeway network opens at Woolloongabba

The Woolloongabba Bikeway has opened amid criticism of the $58 million Indooroopilly project.

Cyclists at Stanley St, Woolloongabba. Picture Mark Cranitch

THE final stage of the 2.5km Woolloongabba Bikeway has been completed with construction around the South East Freeway on-ramp.

The final stage delivered shared through and left-turn traffic lanes to the freeway on Stanley St.

Public and Active Transport Chairwoman Krista Adams said the Woolloongabba Bikeway connected to the now complete Kangaroo Point Bikeway, delivering a cross-city cycling link between the city’s south and the CBD.

“The completion of the Woolloongabba Bikeway has delivered a missing link, and Brisbane now has a continuous cycling corridor from the University of Queensland and the Eleanor Schonell Bridge in Dutton Park to the CBD, the Bicentennial Bikeway and the Veloway 1 (V1) bikeway,” Cr Adams said.

The milestone moment was marred by criticism over the $58 million price tag for the 790m long Indooroopilly bikeway.

Cr Adams defended the expenditure and said the Woolloongabba bikeway was now part of Brisbane City Council’s extensive network of connected and safe bikeways.

“Every dollar invested into cycling infrastructure makes Brisbane an even better city to live, work and relax and we have invested $100 million over four years to deliver four major bikeway corridors and more than 35 suburban bikeways by the end of 2020,” Cr Adams said.

The Woolloongabba Bikeway crossing at the Mater Hospital.

“The Woolloongabba Bikeway provides 2.5km of safe cycling along Annerley Rd and Stanley Street, with separated bike lanes, three floating bus stops and audible line marking.

“The completion of this bikeway will deliver significant safety improvements for the thousands of cyclists who ride on these roads every day.

“Creating clear and safe separation between motorists and cyclists was the key focus of this project, and this bikeway delivered Brisbane’s first ever floating bus stops to remove any potential conflict between bikes and buses, and ensure an even safer trip for cyclists.

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“We are now gearing up to begin works on several other bikeway projects across Brisbane.

“This financial year we have committed $25.5 million to help create new bikeway links, including the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and Indooroopilly riverwalks, the Wakerley Bikeway as well as cycling links to the North Brisbane Bikeway and Wishart Community Park.

“A further $2 million will also be allocated to reconstruct and improve existing bikeways to help active travellers get home sooner and safer.

“We have a vision for a city that has a comprehensive network of cycle paths and bikeways as this helps minimise traffic congestion and encourages residents to keep active and healthy.”