Inner West Sydney's Epic Car-Free Greenway to Finally Be Completed
Great news, but conveniently last-minute timing.
The inner west's long-dreamed-about Greenway — a 5.8 kilometre, car-free path linking the Cooks River and Iron Cove, following the light rail's route — is finally set to become a reality. Last month, federal Labor promised $7.5 million to the project, in the event of being elected. And, it appears the NSW Government has responded to the pressure by pledging $7 million of its own. Convenient timing, before a federal election. Just sayin'.
This money will be matched by another $7 million from the newly created (and highly controversial) Inner West Council — an amalgamation of Leichhardt, Ashfield and Marrickville Councils. Over three years, the $14 million will go towards mending the Greenway's eleven 'missing links' – spots where the path is broken by obstacles, like bridges and tunnels.
"The great advantage of doing this is that it does get cyclists off roadways and onto the type of infrastructure that they deserve to have. The cycling community is only going to increasingly grow," said transport minister Andrew Constance.
Honestly, this is pretty transparent timing. Local MPs, councillors and residents have been hassling the State Government for help for years. However, in 2011, then transport minister Gladys Berejiklian rejected the plans. Since then, local councils have built bits and pieces of the Greenway with their own money — its current length is now 2.6 kilometres.
"It is very much a priority for this council. We have been seeking the finalisation of a funding commitment from the state government for some time so it will be well received," said Inner West Council administrator Richard Pearson.
Via SMH.
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