The two-way off-road bike path through Coburg along O’Hea Street could be extended west across Pascoe Vale, according to a new proposal from the City of Merri-bek.
O’Hea Street currently hosts a two-way path along the south side of the street as far west as Sussex Street, with the planned extension switching to the north side with a diagonal crossing and traffic signals at the O’Hea and Sussex streets intersection.
The proposal shows the extension as far as Derby Street, however, there is potential for it to progress as far as Irvine Street where it could connect to other bike routes through the suburb.
The City of Merri-bek says the installation of the existing O'Hea Street bike path created opportunities for landscaping and allowed for additional tree planting, greatly improving the amenity of the streetscape.
This bike path extension would provide these same opportunities for greening and tree planting to further improve the look and feel of the street.
Currently, the two-way lanes end abruptly, leaving riders without adequate infrastructure to continue to ride on, the City says.
"This proposed extension will address this gap [in the bike route], allowing riders of all confidence levels to continue their journeys safely.”
"This project is important as it helps open up east–west travel in Merri-bek for bike riders, offering a safe, relaxed alternative route to Bell Street, which is not suitable for riding bikes."
Maps, designs, and a survey are available on the project engagement website: https://conversations.merri-bek.vic.gov.au/ohea-street-bike-lane-extension