A local campaign for new cycleway on a busy street in Hobart’s CBD is gaining momentum, with over 500 cyclists voicing support for the proposed changes.
Initiated by Bicycle Network Tasmania, the petition aims to create a dedicated cycle route on Collins St between Molle and Murray streets.
“Collins Street is one of the most popular cycling routes into the city centre for people coming from Fern Tree, South Hobart and West Hobart,” organisers said.
“It’s also used by people riding and scooting from other areas who appreciate its lower traffic volumes and signalised crossing over Molle Street.”
They described Collins Street as the “best of a bad bunch of city streets” and argued a cycleway will encourage more people to use active transport options.
“The risk of car dooring, being hit by a car and poor sightlines at intersections means many people who would like to ride don’t because they think it’s too unsafe,” they said.
“Collins Street has the potential to become a truly vibrant active transport street … We ask Hobart City Councillors to honour the council’s commitment in the Greater Hobart Cycling Plan for a AAA cycleway on Collins Street and expect the tactical trial options to include separated cycleways.”
The City of Hobart says planning is already underway for “tactical” temporary bicycle infrastructure on Collins St to reduce traffic congestion, with designs expected to be released in July.
Nearby, the council is currently installing separated bicycle lanes along sections of Argyle Street and Campbell Street to provide more options for people traveling to, through and around the city.
Work on Campbell Street will see the road reduced to two lanes, with one existing lane to be replaced with a clearway cycleway later this year.
