Plans for the shared path that will make it safer and easier for people walking and cycling along Ballarat’s Sturt Street have been released as works progress on major safety upgrades at the Raglan and Ascot Street intersections.

Minister for Roads, Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford said the plans have been developed after months of community consultation with locals, traders, the City of Ballarat and the Ballarat Heritage Advisory Committee.

The new design shows an upgrade to the existing path running along the southern edge of Sturt Street’s iconic median gardens, which will be widened to provide a safety buffer between the path and existing traffic lanes. The gravel path will also be upgraded to a new smoother surface.

Construction will get underway in April as the Andrews Labor Government ramps up works on safety upgrades on Sturt Street with the installation of traffic lights at the Raglan and Ascot Street intersections to be complete in the coming months.

The existing lights at Ripon Street will also be improved to add a pedestrian link between Sturt Street’s central medians.

Further safety upgrades at the remaining four intersections – Talbot, Errard, Lyons and Windermere streets – will be rolled out along Sturt Street in 2020.

Regional Roads Victoria is delivering upgrades along Sturt Street as part of the $9.3 million Ballarat Safer Cycling Connections project, in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission.

To view the final design, head to regionalsroads.vic.gov.au and search for ‘Ballarat Safer Cycling Connections’.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads, Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford

“We’re upgrading the Sturt Street bike path to make it safer and easier for the mums and dads pushing their prams and the kids riding their bikes to school.”

“We know how much the Ballarat community values its rich history and what a drawcard that is for our city, and this final design ensures that we protect that history while still improving safety and accessibility.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“This bike path will open up Sturt Street for people walking and cycling while ensuring its beautiful heritage is preserved.”

Quote attributable to member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“Whether you’re taking the kids to school or heading out for a cycle on the weekend, we’re making Sturt Street safer for everybody.”