Overview
Regular riders along the Sydney Harbour Bridge cycleway will be familiar with the stairs located on the northern end of the tracks — specifically, a looming 55-step climb (or slightly more bearable descent) used for route access.
To address the bottleneck for both cyclists and pedestrians, the state government has revealed two design concepts for Milsons Point ramp this morning, Monday, May 3.
The long-awaited unveiling follows an abandoned plan in 2018 to install lifts at either end of the bridge and the construction of six temporary cycleways in 2020. The bike-friendly track runs between Millers Point and Milsons Point, along the western side of the famous bridge.
Artist's impression - Milsons Point ramp (option one)
The first concept is a linear ramp running from Milsons Point Station on a "gentle gradient" north through Bradfield Park. This option aims to reduce cyclist and pedestrian conflict at the cycleway entrance. The second option is a two-storey spiral ramp in the centre of Bradfield Park, offering improved access, safety and convenience for cyclists, as well as a more compact footprint compared to the other design.
"A new ramp will improve safety but also encourage people who are currently unable or unwilling to tackle the stairs from Bradfield Park to use what is our most popular cycleway in Sydney," Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said in a press release.
Artist's impression - Milsons Point ramp (option two)
Transport for NSW will seek community feedback on both concepts "over the coming months" and work with key stakeholders and industry experts to find an "outcome appropriate for this world-famous location".
The state government said the number of riders who use the Sydney Harbour Bridge could more than double over ten years, with an estimated 2,000 cycling trips currently taken on weekdays.
The new ramp concept is part of a wider $710 million investment by the NSW Government to improve walking and cycling infrastructure over the next four years.
To find out more information about City of Sydney's cycle routes, head to the council website.