Improved cycling infrastructure for the Majura Parkway and Horse Park Drive was promised as part of election pledges made to Canberra's cycling community by the three major parties last night.
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Representatives from the three parties were bidding to win the support of Canberra's cyclists at the ACT Election Cycling Forum hosted by Pedal Power in Civic last night.
Chief Minister Katy Gallagher committed the government to a maximum of $12 million for an off-road cycle lane along the planned Majura Parkway, which would be built to coincide with the road's completion in 2016.
She highlighted the government's continuing work on the Civic cycle loop, the missing cycle links around Lake Burley Griffin, and further repairs on damaged paths at Morshead Drive.
The government has also put forward $4 million for a project to encourage children to ride to school.
The project aims to address the visibility and safety concerns held by many parents.
Opposition transport services spokesman Alistair Coe committed to an off-road bike path along Horse Park Drive in conjunction with the opposition's pledge to duplicate the road if elected.
Mr Coe promised to investigate off-road cycle paths for the territory's main roads, including Adelaide Avenue and Belconnen Way, while committing an additional $1 million for further street sweeping to remove the glass and debris from roads.
He reiterated the opposition's support for the Civic cycle loop, and the Bowen Drive crossing, and pledged $100,000 for secure bike racks at popular spots around Canberra.
Mr Coe said a Liberal government would investigate fitting out ACTION buses to allow cyclists to take their bikes on board, and would increase the emphasis on cyclist safety in driver training courses.
The Greens pledged an additional $13.25 million for cycling and walking infrastructure across Canberra, and promised to immediately inject $600,000 for urgent improvements to pedestrian safety and amenities, including crossings, lights, and 40km/h zones.
Greens active transport spokeswoman Caroline Le Couteur said the party would seek to introduce new laws to better protect vulnerable road users, go ahead with Canberra's first ''cycle highway'' from Molonglo to the city, and provide $350,000 for grants to promote cycling in the ACT.
The election promises came as the federal government signed off yesterday on a long-awaited upgrade for a crossing at Bowen Place on Lake Burley Griffin.
