Geelong's new Integrated Transport Strategy, aimed at guiding the major regional city towards a modern transport system, has moved into its second and most critical phase: active transport.
Walking and cycling networks form the base layer of contemporary city planning, tightly integrated with public transport.
People-dense streets make attractive environments for people to live, work and play and are the essential underpinnings of successful urban economies.
Now, the City of Greater Geelong has released its ideas for improving and encouraging active travel for local trips, and it wants your feedback: https://yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/ITS
It is important for Geelong’s future prosperity and liveability that riders in the community get engaged and help nudge Geelong forward and away from the parochial attitudes that have stymied active transport plans over the past decade.
Geelong is said to be the first city in the world to have a bike plan (1978) and it needs to regain the vision and optimism it once proudly had.
Riders who live in or visit the region have until 18 May 2025 to comment. There is an online survey, pin maps to make suggestions for routes and in-person sessions for discussion with the planners.
Of particular interest will be the map of the updated Strategic Cycling Corridors and Principal Bicycle Network across the region. You can switch map layers off and on to get a clearer view of the plans and drop pins on the map to add feedback.
The review of the network has focused on connecting residential catchments to employment precincts, places of activity, schools and train stations.
There is also a map addressing more general active transport issues, a good place to report your experiences and frustrations of trying to walk and bike safely around the region.
There is also a Background Report available from the webpage document library that contains much valuable information.
There will be further community engagement regarding the strategy during this year with the final strategy to be released in 2026.
Or become our friend and subscribe to receive our fortnightly newsletter.