Green wave traffic signals used to give cyclists easier ride in CBD

Cyclists travelling down a busy part of Melbourne’s CBD will be given green light priority for riding at safer speeds under new technology introduced by the City of Melbourne.

Cyclists cruising down a busy thoroughfare into Melbourne’s CBD will be given green light priority for riding at safer speeds under new technology introduced by the City of Melbourne.

A year-long trial of the scheme on Albert St in East Melbourne will be made permanent, with riders given a “green wave” of light signals if they travel between 20-25km/h.

The lights have been timed so that cyclists who travel at higher speeds will have no choice but to stop and wait at red signals.

Council staff found the system delivered a 13 per cent reduction in cyclist speeds without negatively impacting travel time for those rode safely.

It comes as the council pushes forward with the next step of its cycling strategy, with 53 parking bays removed in Linlithgow Ave to make way for separate bike lanes.

Cyclist Lauren Le Quire will be one of many cyclists slowing down to ride the “green wave” of light signals. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

The move is designed to lure more bicycles away from Southbank Promenade and make the area more pedestrian friendly.

City of Melbourne transport portfolio chair Nicolas Frances-Gilley said “green waves” were common in cycling cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

“Cyclists riding along Albert Street in East Melbourne can get a smooth run of green lights between Lansdowne and Hoddle Streets,” he said.

“The green wave operates in the city bound direction during the morning peak commute period and in the outbound direction during the evening period.

“Cyclists who travel at high speeds, particularly on the downhill sections of Albert Street during the evening peak period will have to stop and wait at red traffic signals.

“By slowing down and riding at a comfortable speed, you don’t get stopped at the lights and you save time.”

A year-long trial has reportedly shaved one minute off the morning commute for cyclists. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

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Mr Frances-Gilley said the trial had also shaved one minute off the morning commute for cyclists.

“That might not sound like a lot but as someone who uses their bike to get around, there’s nothing better than getting a convenient run of green lights on the way to work and home again,” he said.

“Green waves don’t work on all roads and intersections but we are thrilled to have one on Albert Street to give cyclists a smooth journey and reduce the incentive to travel at high speeds on steep downhill sections which improves safety for all road users.”

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