What’s Happening?
Bicycle Queensland, in collaboration with Townsville City Council and community members, has established the Active Transport Advisory Group.
This initiative aims to enhance bike riding, scooter riding, and pedestrian infrastructure and facilities across the city, encouraging sustainable transport options.
Why It Matters?
Townsville faces increasing demand for sustainable and accessible transport solutions.
This initiative addresses safety concerns, infrastructure gaps, and community interest in adopting active transport.
By creating safer, more connected paths for bike riders and pedestrians, the city can reduce car dependency, minimise environmental impact, and promote healthier lifestyles.
Local Impact
The advisory group is set to directly benefit residents by making Townsville a safer and more sustainable city.
By improving infrastructure and fostering a culture of active transport, the group aims to enhance the quality of life for bike riders, scooter users, and pedestrians alike.
By the Numbers
- Townsville currently has 120 km of dedicated bike lanes, which the advisory group aims to upgrade to meet safety standards.
- The collaboration targets increasing active transport use by 20% within the next three years.
- Bicycle Queensland reports that cycling accounts for only 3% of trips in Townsville, highlighting significant room for growth.
Zoom In
Alton Twine, CEO of Bicycle Queensland, expressed optimism about the initiative, saying:
“Bicycle Queensland congratulates Townsville City Council on this initiative. This advisory group is a fantastic opportunity to work directly with the local community and Townsville City Council to make meaningful improvements for bike and scooter riders, and pedestrians. By working together, we can help create a more connected, sustainable, and healthier city for all residents.”
The group’s key goals include ensuring bike lanes meet safety standards, creating a safe and connected shared path network, and upgrading infrastructure to better support walkers and riders.
Townsville Bicycle User Group (BUG) is playing a pivotal role, providing grassroots advocacy and collaboration with the council.
Zoom Out
This initiative reflects a growing trend in Australian cities to prioritise sustainable transport.
Similar groups have successfully boosted cycling and pedestrian activity in Brisbane and Melbourne, demonstrating the potential for Townsville to become a leader in active transport in regional Queensland.
What to Look For Next?
The advisory group will conduct an initial assessment of Townsville’s active transport network and set measurable goals for infrastructure upgrades.
Expect to see the rollout of new bike lanes, improved shared paths, and targeted community campaigns encouraging walking and cycling by mid-2025.
This collaboration represents a significant step toward transforming Townsville into a more accessible, eco-friendly city for all.
