A FEDERAL Labor government would spend $5 million on improved cycle paths in Canberra’s inner north.

The Garden City Cycle Route would cover over five kilometres across the inner north travelling through the suburbs of Watson, Downer, Dickson, Ainslie, Braddon, and the city.

The cycle path – delivered in partnership with the ACT Government if an Albanese government is elected – would include a mix of off-road shared paths and protected on-road cycle lane, and be in direct proximity to approximately 17,000 homes.

ACT Labor senator Katy Gallagher said the project would make it easier and safer for cyclists to get around the inner north of Canberra.

“It is Labor that delivered the light rail network, it is Labor that has delivered major road projects like the Majura Parkway and it is Labor that has significantly expanded our walking and cycle paths,” Ms Gallagher said. 

“This investment will make it easier and safer for Canberrans to get around Canberra’s north on two wheels.”

ACT Labor promised $5 million for the first stage of the project before the 2020 territory election. 

“I welcome federal Labor’s commitment to invest $5 million in the Garden City Cycle Route..this will deliver the project’s priority stages, it supports our community and promotes active travel across the ACT,” ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

The route would help reduce traffic congestion on the roads, while also encouraging people to be active and improve their health, according to federal Labor.

“Canberra has the highest cycling participation rate in the nation so this announcement will be very welcome news to the capital’s cyclists,” Member for Canberra Alicia Payne said.

“We know cycling is good for health, good for the environment, and makes a strong contribution to the ACT’s economy.”