Safety boost for cyclists as Feds fund new million-dollar path project in Katherine

Cyclists and pedestrians in a Territory town will get a boost with a new million-dollar development. Read what’s planned.

Katherine residents will soon have a new million-dollar, 5.7km bicycle and pedestrian pathway to be built along Zimin Drive.

The new infrastructure will connect the existing pathway at the low-level bridge on the Stuart Highway and form a continuous loop that integrates with the Riverlink Trail and other pedestrian and cycling routes.

It follows concerns raised by cyclists to Katherine Town Council about the dangers of sharing the road with road trains and vehicles towing caravans.

Katherine Mayor Lis Clark.

Funded with $756,000 secured from the Australian Government’s Active Transport Fund, Katherine Council will contribute $324,000 to the $1.08 million project.

The sealed pathway will be 2.4m wide and accessible for use by cyclists and pedestrians. It will include new road crossings to connect with existing trails and the transport network and clear signage to inform users of their safety obligations.

The new facility at Zimin Drive will be welcomed.

Katherine mayor Lis Clark said the pathway will significantly benefit local events such as the Katherine Ultra Challenge and the Katherine Run Festival, which attract hundreds of participants a year.

“Council is committed to building a safer, healthier, and more connected Katherine,” Ms Clark said. “This investment in active transport will reduce road hazards, encourage physical activity,

and enhance the quality of life for our residents.

“Katherine Town Council thanks the Australian Government for its support in delivering this important community infrastructure.”

Construction is expected to begin in the next couple of months, following completion of the tender and design process.

Originally published as Safety boost for cyclists as Feds fund new million-dollar path project in Katherine