Toowoomba Regional Council is putting its best foot forward by planning ahead for improved connectivity of walking paths in Oakey, Toowoomba and Highfields.
The Council was successful in obtaining Walking Local Government Grants from Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads for the development of the three Walking Network Plans.
Council Infrastructure Committee Portfolio Lead, Councillor Melissa Taylor said the plans were a great first step towards improving the connectivity, legibility and accessibility of walking routes in each location.
“Each Walking Network Plan was developed by active transport specialists, in consultation with local community, advisory and interest groups,” Cr Taylor said.
“A series of community workshops and pop-up engagement activities as well as walking route audits were conducted for each location, to make sure each of the walking networks suit the needs of the local community now and in the future.
“The plans identify key destinations at each location and aim to connect these places by identifying potential walking routes.
“These walking network plans will inform future priority works programs which will identify locations for new and upgraded footpaths, safe crossings and the need for supporting measures such as shade trees, lighting and seating.
“If we can create better places to walk, active transport becomes a more attractive and accessible choice for both transport and recreation.
“While a works program is not yet established, the detailed planning that has gone into these plans will ensure that walking routes developed or enhanced in the future are carefully considered and well connected,” she said.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said money invested in well planned infrastructure for people walking pays for itself in physical and mental health benefits, reduced traffic congestion, economic development and socially connected communities.
“That’s why we developed the Walking Local Government Grants Program, part of the Queensland Government’s more than $268.8 million commitment from 2022–23 to 2025–26 towards active transport initiatives, including bikeways, shared paths and bridges across the state,” said Minister Bailey.
