Media release From Jane Garrett, Labor Candidate for Brunswick 9 November 2009

$160,000 FOR BRUNSWICK BIKE ROUTE Part of $2 Million Brumby Government Funding to Improve Sustainable Transport 5 November, 2009 Jane Garrett, Labor candidate for Brunswick, has welcomed news of n $160,000 Brumby Labor Government initiative to fund a new alternative north south bike route through Brunswick and Brunswick East linking Carlton North and Coburg. Moreland City Council has received $160,000 as part of nearly $2 million given to councils in Melbourne and regional Victoria to improve local access and overcome barriers to walking, cycling and public transport. The $226,000 Canning Street Extension Project will be delivered thanks to joint funding from the Brumby Government’s fourth round of TravelSmart and Local Area Access Program grants and Moreland City Council. “I am delighted to announce funding for this project, which will improve sustainable transport options in our community and encourage people to leave their cars at home for short trips,” Ms Garrett said. “The Brumby Government is taking action to deal with congestion and this program was established to encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport to get around. “The benefits are numerous, including less traffic congestion, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a more physically fit community. “The Canning Street Extension Project will provide a clear north-south cycling route linking North Carlton and Coburg through Brunswick East “The project will improve cyclist safety by providing improved intersections, refuge islands and a bicycle specific right-turn lane.” Ms Garrett said most local trips range from two to five kilometres, which is an easy distance to walk or cycle. Yet most people are using their cars for these short trips, contributing greatly to congestion and pollution. “These grants enable local groups to implement transport improvements that benefit our community and our environment,” Ms Garrett said.

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Ms Garrett has congratulated the Moreland City Council and the Brunswick Bicycle users group on their hard work and advocacy for this project. TravelSmart and Local Area Access Program grants are designed to assist local governments in implementing projects that encourage residents to think twice before using their car. The push to get more people out of their cars and using other transport options is an important part of the Brumby Government’s $38 billion Victorian Transport Plan and is backed up by the Victorian Cycling Plan. “We are delighted to be able to support these innovative and practical projects that will improve access and liveability for our community,” Ms Garrett said. For more information on the TravelSmart www.transport.vic.gov.au/sustainable

Media Information Christopher Anderson 0403056494

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6/11/2009 3:01 PM