RAC is calling on federal candidates to commit to long term investment in cycling infrastructure to keep pace with the State’s rapid population growth.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs, Will Golsby, said there is an urgent need for better cycling infrastructure to cater for the almost 600,000 Western Australians already cycling each week.
“Cycling has increased well above the rate of population growth, with a 34 per cent increase in cyclists using the Principal Shared Path network between 2011 and 2015,” he said.
“Cycling needs to be prioritised as a safe and convenient mode of transport because our members need more transport options, and the State is facing a congestion crisis, with Perth on its way to becoming the most congested capital in the country.”
RAC’s Cycling Business Case outlined the need for increased investment in cycling infrastructure with $388 million required over 10 years to keep up with demand and further boost cycling participation.
“It has been 20 years since the State’s first Perth Bicycle Network Plan was released, yet today, WA’s cycling infrastructure remains piecemeal."
A federal commitment to funding cycling infrastructure, focused on high priority infrastructure gaps and separating cyclists from traffic along major arterial corridors is crucial to delivering continuous, convenient and comprehensive cycle networks across WA.
Mr Golsby said investment in cycling has wide-ranging benefits across many government sectors, including transport and health. Research shows the community benefits associated with investment in cycling infrastructure is at least 3.4 times the costs incurred.
“Cycling is as an important alternative mode of transport to help tackle congestion and this infrastructure will provide enhanced amenity, connectivity and safety, as well as help reduce vehicle emissions,” he said.
RAC’s recent Cycling Survey found the main barriers to cycling more often included a lack of bike routes (31 per cent of respondents) and fear of sharing the roads with motorists (43 per cent).
“The warnings signs are all there. Now we need commitment from federal candidates,” Mr Golsby said.
RAC has joined motoring clubs across Australia in a national campaign called Keep Australia Moving, representing more than eight million members in the lead up to the Federal Election. Community members can join the campaign by sending a message to their local candidates, asking for a fairer share of funding for cycling infrastructure.
RAC Media - 0401 703 719
RAC is calling on federal candidates to commit to long term investment in cycling infrastructure to keep pace with the State’s rapid population growth.
