The original version of this article incorrectly referred Skeleton Creek rather than Laverton Creek. Thank you to the readers that brought this to our attention.
The long-planned bike and pedestrian bridge over the Laverton Creek to link Altona and Altona Meadows is set to proceed following a $12 million state budget allocation.
The only existing option is to use the narrow bikes lanes on the Queen Street bridge, where 19,000 vehicles a day can whistle by at 60 km/h. There are no pedestrian facilities on the bridge.
Hopes for a shared path crossing were dashed several years ago when the road bridge was upgraded. Now riders and walkers will have their own facility.
The Hobsons Bay area has many sections of good shared paths, including the Bay Trail West and paths along the Laverton Creek, but some crucial connections have been missing.
This project will significantly improve the connectivity of the bike network and make local facilities more accessible to the community.
Minister for Road Safety and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne says the announcement was a significant win.
“We are taking decisive action to address safety concerns and enhance local connectivity,” she says. “This investment reaffirms our commitment to improving infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists.”
Mayor of Hobsons Bay Matt Tyler says he is pleased to hear of the funding win.
“We have been working closely with the Department of Transport and Planning on the design of the new bridge, and we look forward to seeing works begin and our community having a safe passage between Altona and Altona Meadows.”
Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter.