MICK Gentleman and Shane Rattenbury have announced that pedestrian lights and bus stops on Commonwealth Avenue will operate permanently to allow easier access Regatta Point and community events in the area.

“The pedestrian lights will be in operation from this Sunday 17 May 2015, in time for the RSPCA Million Paws Walk. The bus stops will be operational from this Monday 18 May 2015,” Mick said.

“Currently the pedestrian lights and bus stops are only operational for big events like Floriade. However, from this weekend they will become a permanent fixture.

“The lights and bus stops will make visiting the city, Commonwealth Park, Regatta Point and Westside at Acton Park safer and easier. They also aim to encourage Canberrans to park further away from the city centre and take alternative forms of transport such as buses, walking or cycling to events in the city precinct.

“The pedestrian lights and bus stops will allow easier access to the Civic Cycle Loop and Lake Burley Griffin pedestrian paths.”

Shane said improving bus services and pedestrian access was part of supporting a healthy and active community.

“This is one small change of many changes that need to occur right across Canberra to help and encourage Canberrans to choose sustainable forms of transport such as public transport, walking and cycling,” Shane said.

“The two bus stops are located either side of Commonwealth Avenue. Routes that will service the stops include route 1, 2, 3, 80 and Blue Rapid services. The Blue Rapid is a high frequency service linking the City, Belconnen, Woden and Tuggeranong. The Blue Rapid is a great way to move quickly to and from Canberra’s local centres.

“Both bus stops have pedestrian paths linking to the Commonwealth Avenue pedestrian lights, Civic Cycle Loop and R G Menzies Walk around Lake Burley Griffin.”