Bikeway Upgrade in Varsity

(By Laura Bingham and Vanessa Hill - Bond University Journalism Students)

The Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) will be implementing on and off-road bikeways in Varsity Lakes this year as part of the five year bikeway network operational plan.

The GCCC Bicycle Network Strategy Review, released in November of 2008, listed Varsity Lakes as a key region to be included in the five year plan to improve Gold Coast road and bike safety. 

A projected $6 million will be spent this year improving bikeways and implementing new bike lanes on the Gold Coast.

Bicycle Facilities and Special Events Traffic Engineering Officer Debbie Middleditch said the purpose of the upgrade was to provide a network of bikeways that were linked throughout the Gold Coast.

“The plan provides on and off road facilities encouraging more cycling and safer transport,” she said.

 “The five year works program included a strategic review of existing and proposed missing [bikeway] links...the council worked with consultants to develop a priority ranking to be implemented.”

Varsity Lakes resident and regular cyclist Paul Carcallas said improvements where necessary for bikeways in Varsity Lakes to ensure safety.

 “I have and some of my friends have almost been swiped by cars,” he said.

“There aren’t many streets signs on the road for cyclists.”