Yarra City Council has voted to make protected bike lanes in the city permanent following the completion of a nearly three-year trial.
In a statement, the Council said it was proud to deliver a safer option for cyclists on the key Elizabeth Street commuter route.
“This move makes cycling a more accessible transport option for residents all over the municipality,” it said.
“Protected bike lanes are safer for cyclists to use and will encourage more people of all ages and abilities to ride which is a key objective of the Yarra Transport Strategy.”
Council says data from the trial which began in July 2020 showed that the number of women and children using the upgraded bike lanes had increased significantly.
The protected bike lanes have also slowed down traffic and reduced the risk of fatal accidents for motorists and pedestrians, it said.
“The outputs of an extensive community engagement process have shown that there is support for the provision of protected bike lanes on this street.”
Council says it will now explore opportunities to secure funding to replace the existing temporary infrastructure with longer term kerbed bike lanes along with tree plantings, landscaping, and other street feature upgrades.
