Illawarra - Shoalhaven Strategic Integrated Regional Transport Plan
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven Strategic Integrated Regional Transport Plan Report has just been released.
Link to doc: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t_er_FU9RcjQkzHtmdGa2zs8jN4tnhCZ/view?usp=sharing
Five Most Important Points on Active Transport and Cycling
Development of Strategic Cycleway Corridors
The plan prioritizes the creation of a connected network of high-quality, safer cycleways to improve the attractiveness and safety of cycling for access to key centres, stations, and corridors. Twenty-three strategic cycleway corridors have been identified, forming a proposed 130-kilometre network.
Example: Flagship routes include the Thirroul to Wollongong City Centre cycleway, the Southern Coastal cycleway linking Shell Cove to Wollongong, and the Lake Illawarra cycleway.
Addressing Gaps and Fragmentation in Active Transport Networks
The current active transport infrastructure is fragmented, with missing links and lower-quality facilities making walking and cycling inconvenient or unsafe for many trips. The plan calls for filling these gaps, especially in urban and town centres, to ensure continuous and accessible networks for all ages and abilities.
Example: Many areas lack safe, separated cycleways and footpaths, particularly in Shoalhaven and regional parts of the network, limiting the viability of cycling for everyday trips.
Integration of Active Transport with Public Transport
Enhancing and upgrading bike and micromobility parking at transport interchanges is a key initiative to support increased uptake of active transport as part of longer journeys. Improving walking and cycling connections to bus stops and train stations is also emphasized to enable seamless multimodal journeys.
Example: The plan includes actions to deliver secure bike parking at stations and to expand footpaths and cycleways that connect to public transport, schools, universities, and key destinations.
Behaviour Change and Safety Programs
The plan highlights the need for behaviour change programs, events, and activities to encourage greater uptake of active and public transport. Safety improvements, such as targeted upgrades to walking and cycling infrastructure, reduced speed limits in high-risk areas, and campaigns to promote safe cycling and walking, are also prioritized.
Example: The Safer Cities: Her Way program and the adoption of 'Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design' principles aim to improve perceptions of safety, particularly for women and vulnerable users.
Supporting Net Zero and Health Outcomes through Active Transport
Increasing investment in safe and attractive active transport infrastructure is identified as a key opportunity to support the region’s net zero emissions goals and improve public health. The plan aims to double the number of walking and bike riding trips taken each year over 20 years, reducing reliance on private vehicles for short trips.
Example: The plan leverages the NSW Government Active Transport Strategy and supports the rollout of e-bikes and micromobility options to make cycling more accessible in hilly or dispersed areas.
