On the Bicycles

[bcasey]

Wouldn't putting a bar (or even just a pole) in the middle of the path entrance, plus one on either side of it, be enough to block cars, without creating a bottleneck for bicycles?

[ozbob]

21st December 2016

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Community consulted over Samford to Ferny Grove Cycle Link Stage 2

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey has ruled out one of the alignment options of Stage Two of the Samford to Ferny Grove Cycle Link after extensive technical investigations and rigorous community engagement.

Mr Bailey and Member for Ferny Grove Mark Furner visited Samford yesterday to speak with residents about the proposed options.

"After listening to the concerns of residents and considering the findings of the analysis, I've agreed with the final recommendation by independent consultants to deliver cycling improvements that do not require forced resumptions of private property along the old rail corridor," Minister Bailey said.

"What this means is that further planning and design will start in the first half of next year to determine exactly what improvements will be implemented from the remaining options."

Mr Furner said the Palaszczuk Government had listened to community feedback received during the engagement period in finalising this outcome.

"More than 1,040 responses were received via a range of methods including an online survey, phone calls, meetings and letters in November," he said.

"Deciding on a final alignment has always been about balancing the need for improved cycling infrastructure while remaining sensitive to community expectations.

"This project has received a lot of interest from the community and I would like thank them for working with TMR and the consultants so patiently throughout this process.

"The robustness of discussions just goes to show the level of passion for community cycling and reflects the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to improve cycling infrastructure to get more people cycling, more often."

The Palaszczuk Government has committed nearly $37 million into cycling infrastructure in 2015-16 and over the next four years will invest more than $163 million dollars across the state.

More information about the project can be found at http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/S/Samford-to-Ferny-Grove-Cycle-Link

[ozbob]

28th December 2016

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Brisbane's first integrated cycle track coming to Northshore Hamilton

A $26 million upgrade of the streets of Northshore Hamilton will include more than 14kms of integrated separated cycle track built alongside Remora Road, Macarthur Avenue and Hercules Street.

Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Mark Bailey said around 78 jobs will be created during the construction phase of the projects due to begin in the New Year.

"This Brisbane first integrated cycle track will make Northshore Hamilton an enviable destination for cyclists and set a new benchmark for future road and cycle projects," Mr Bailey said.

"The cycle track is completely separate to the vehicle lanes, providing a safer ride for cyclists and a better traffic flow, with a beautiful new tree lined boulevard providing shade.

"The Northshore Hamilton cycle track will link cyclists with key destinations such as Portside, the planned riverwalk, residential developments, and the Kingsford Smith Drive cycle way.

Mr Bailey said the infrastructure improvements are part of the Palaszczuk Government's Advancing our cities and regions initiative.

"The infrastructure improvements include widenings, resurfacing, new footpaths and cycle tracks, additional bus stops, servicing and landscaping and new energy efficient LED street lighting to enhance the safety and security of the area," Mr Bailey said.

Project 1 will see Theodore Street extended to create a direct link through to Barcham Street and Cullen Avenue West at a cost of approximately $2 million. These works are expected to run from early January 2017 to March 2017.

Project 2 will involve a $24 million upgrade to Remora Road, Macarthur Avenue, Hercules Street and Harbour Road, including new traffic lights installed on Remora Road and Macarthur Avenue to improve traffic flow and connectivity along Finnegan Street and Wharf Close. This project is scheduled to be complete by mid-2018.

"The long-term benefits for Northshore Hamilton will be significant for residents and businesses with a better connected community boosting liveability and lifestyle.

"Both projects will be carried out by BMD Constructions."

Northshore Hamilton is Brisbane's largest urban renewal precinct, delivering a healthy and safe lifestyle and these infrastructure updates will further enhance the community's lifestyle.

For more on Northshore Hamilton visit: http://www.northshorehamilton.com.au

ENDS

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane City Council rejects proposal for protective bike lanes in CBD

Brisbane cycling advocates believe the council "hasn't tried very hard" when reviewing a proposal to implement a grid of protective bike lanes in the CBD.

Space4cyclingBNE submitted a proposal to implement bike lanes on George, Edward, Ann, Margaret and Herschel streets along with a petition containing almost 3000 signatures.

Spokeswoman Belinda Ward said the proposal would meet big demand for improved cycling conditions in the city and encourage commuters to use bicycles.

"Commuters said the last bit into central city was too scary for them to ride," Ms Ward said.

The submission was made in August last year, however Brisbane City Council didn't look at it until January.

Councillors were in recess at the time, so the proposal was reviewed and rejected by the Establishment and Coordination Committee.

Ms Ward couldn't understand the four-month delay in assessing the plan, which meant some non-LNP councillors who supported the idea didn't have a say.

When council resumed, Ms Ward said the rejected plan was praised by Gabba councillor Jonathan Sri, Deagon councillor Jared Cassidy and Tennyson councillor Nicole Johnston.

In a written response to the proposal, Brisbane City Council said they rejected the proposal because it would mean the loss of roadside parking, bus stops, taxi ranks and general traffic disruption during construction.

"Installing separated bike lanes in the CBD could improve convenience for cyclists, but the impacts on kerbside parking allocations, public transport and traffic congestion would not justify the benefits."

"Council will however continue to investigate alternative options ... to improve safety and awareness for pedestrians and cyclists."

However, Ms Ward and her fellow cycling advocates weren't impressed.

"We feel council hasn't really looked at the benefits with a good analysis," she said.

"We feel they haven't tried very hard ... and shown a lack of flexibility.

"We accept changes needed to be made, but Brisbane is a growing and innovative city.

"We can adapt and I think protective bike lanes are worth it."

Ms Ward said other cities around the world, such as New York, had successfully implemented the special lanes so "it's not like it hasn't been done".

She also said the CityCyle program doesn't get used to its potential because of the lack of protection for bike users in the CBD.

Ms Ward believes protected bike lanes would improve the number of people riding bicycles in the city, especially business people travelling short distances between meetings.

[#Metro]

^ Bad call by BCC. Elizabeth St could lose a lane for bikes, Fortitude Valley - CBD couplet also.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Hundreds of public servants use pedal power to reach Tower of Power

Queensland's public servants are embracing pedal power to get to the Tower of Power, with more than 1250 bicycle trips made to 1 William Street every week.

Each day, about 250 bicycles are stored under 1 William Street, a home-away-from-home for about 5000 government employees, but the number of bikes fluctuates day-to-day.

The facilities include access to 600 bike racks, bike repair kits, security lockers, showers, a drying room, irons and ironing boards.

Public Works Minister Mick de Brenni said cycling was a great way to look after physical and mental wellbeing.

"As a cycling nut, I know how valuable riding is as a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle," Mr de Brenni said.

"1 William Street in Brisbane is among 13 government-occupied buildings throughout the CBD that have facilities for staff to encourage them to participate in active travel to and from work."

Public servants began moving into the sleek 41-storey skyscraper in October 2016, with old government buildings to be demolished to make way for the Queen's Wharf development.

Bicycle Queensland chief executive officer Ben Wilson said "everybody is pretty jealous" of the facilities at 1 William Street.

"Plenty of people are offered a car parking space when they get a job in the city, well they used to be, but not any more," he said.

"But to have a whiz-bang bike facility is excellent news."

Mr Wilson said not having secure storage, showers and other facilities would usually discourage people from riding to work.

"This is really an open invitation, not just to ride to work, but to be a fit and healthy employee."

Mr Wilson said that decades ago no buildings had cycling facilities, whereas there were now about 5000 people in Brisbane who had access to "fantastic facilities in their offices".

That means people are either giving up driving or a seat on public transport to cycle, having flow-on effects for congestion reduction, he said.

Griffith University Cities Research Institute Associate Professor Matthew Burke described seeing hundreds of bikes stored under 1 William Street at a recent visit.

Dr Burke said workplaces that invested in quality options for cyclists helped contribute to increases in the number of people riding in the past decade.

"You'll only have to see the numbers on the Bicentennial Bikeway, the Goodwill Bridge and coming in from the Riverwalk on the other side," he said.

"Every year, there's more and more people riding to work and it's fabulous, it's great.

"And because most of them are on that off-road network, they are making a very large contribution to traffic congestion reduction in Brisbane."

Dr Burke said there was data on employee retention and cycling, and workplaces that provided facilities appeared to have a competitive edge in recruiting "go-get people" and retaining them.

"By having such a facility, we're likely to retain our best and brightest bureaucrats rather than lose them somewhere else."

Dr Burke agreed that facilities such as secure bike storage, showers and lockers played a big role in encouraging employees to ride to work.

"That's not just cyclists using those facilities, it's joggers at lunchtime and people who walk in, and various others," he said.

Dr Burke said people would choose to ride over other modes of transport, even if it took longer, due to other benefits such as being close to nature, socialising and getting exercise.

"This tells us that some of the ways we do cost-benefit analysis for transport projects probably needs to change," he said.

Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said about 760,000 Queenslanders cycled each week and another 1.53 million wanted to ride a bike.

"It is vital they are supported by good planning and investment in safe infrastructure," Mr Bailey said.

Mr Bailey said the government had committed nearly $42 million into cycling infrastructure across Queensland in 2016-17, with more than $162 million over the next four years to improve safety.

[ozbob]

Plz sign e-petition calling for a bikeway underpass of Logan Rd at Stones Cornerhttps://t.co/tJtiBr1B5c pic.twitter.com/TKokNoyEmO

— Brisbane CBD BUG (@cbdbug) April 10, 2017

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Queensland's most dangerous roads for cyclists

CYCLING on Queensland's highways is a deadly activity – and the Bruce and Kennedy Highways top the list for bicycle rider deaths.

An analysis of 15 years of Queensland Government crash data has revealed almost 5000 people were hospitalised or killed on Queensland roads between 2001 and 2016.

The government data shows 145 bicycle riders have been killed on Queensland roads and 4788 people were hospitalised after crashes involving bicycles.

The Bruce Hwy and north Queensland's Kennedy Hwy are the two deadliest roads for cyclists in the state. But most fatal crashes involving a bicycle occurred on local roads.

Bicycle riders can ride on a highway unless signed otherwise.

The state's top cyclist and motorist groups have both called for more bikeways to be installed when highways are upgraded and for cyclists and motorists to share the road safely.

Bicycling Queensland chief Ben Wilson said bicycle riders needed to prioritise their safety.

"I'm always shocked that the predominant of most people's riding attire is black. It's just nuts," he said.

"Then you'll notice people riding on a $5000 bike in the morning or evening without a light."

Mr Wilson said more bikeways needed to be built to keep riders safe. He praised the construction of bikeways alongside the Pacific and Ipswich Motorways.

RACQ spokeswoman Lauren Ritchie said separate bicycle infrastructure should be built alongside any new or upgraded highway.

But she said the cost of building a bikeway the length of some of the state's major trade routes, like the Bruce Hwy, was prohibitive.

"The safest approach would be to have cyclists in a lane of their own that is fenced off or in a separate bikeway," she said.

RACQ spokeswoman Lauren Ritchie says separate bicycle infrastructure should be built alongside any new or upgraded highway.

"But that's a very expensive exercise – especially on something like the Bruce Hwy."

Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said every road death was a "sober reminder" that safety needs to be prioritised.

"We know that crashes involving bicycles are more likely to be fatal at higher speeds, however the majority of deaths occur on lower speed limit roads of 60kmh or less," he said.

"Every death on our roads is one too many and these statistics are a sober reminder that we all need to think safety first."

Mr Bailey said the government was spending $162 million over four years to improve dedicated bicycle infrastructure.

"This infrastructure includes bike lanes, off-road shared paths and other provisions like wide shoulders on rural roads," he said.

Ms Ritchie urged motorists to take care around bicycle riders and remember who was more vulnerable if a crash occurred.

"We would urge all motorists to give room to cyclists," she said.

"We're all in this together."

But Mr Wilson said some drivers had a poor attitude towards any cyclist.

"People will stop for a family of ducks, but if some people see a bike rider on the road their initial reaction is one of anger," he said.

"That could be someone training for the Commonwealth Games, or even just a 50-year-old trying to get into shape."

[ozbob]

These real-time pedestrian and cyclist counters are coming to Brisbane soon! (Photo source: Eco Counter) pic.twitter.com/XHq0rYVs0Y

— Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) May 15, 2017

[Aircooled]

^ helmets not necessary in Montreal? How adult.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane City Council to install counters on bikeways

Real-time counters of cyclists and, in some cases, pedestrians using certain Brisbane City Council paths will soon be displayed for all to see.

It was revealed on Tuesday morning Brisbane would be the third Australian city to invest in the real-time bikeway counters - with an initial spend of about $130,000 for five counters.

Program delivery manager Cody Grosert told the council's Public and Active Transport committee the counters were a display board on a bike way to provide a real time indication of the number of people that use the path.

"Depending on the type of path and the type of counter it can measure both pedestrians and cyclists at the same time and normally they provide a daily and annual total," he said

The Eco Counters are designed to illustrate the role of bike ways, provide positive reinforcement for people using the paths and the data contribute to overall network planning and monitoring.

"Eco Counters started in Europe so there are counters in Europe, it's also very popular in north and south America and a few in New Zealand," Mr Grosert said.
Advertisement

"In Australia there are existing counters in Perth and Melbourne as well so proven technology was part of our key criteria in selecting them."

The first installation of signs will be at:


    Bicentennial Bike way, Milton (cyclist and pedestrian counter)
    Go Between Bridge, southern side (cyclist counter)
    Woolloongabba Bike way, Stanley Street (cyclist and pedestrian counter)
    Woolloongabba Bike way, Annerley Road (cyclist counter)
    Kangaroo Point Bike way (cyclist and pedestrian counter)

The council's public transport chairman, Adrian Schrinner, said there were opportunities to have these signs in other locations around the network as well.

"Our focus would be high volume sites that are well used but there could be opportunities say at Kedron Brook bikeway or Bulimba Creek bike way or other suburban ones that are well used as well," he said.

Bicycle Queensland development officer Andrew Demack said the installation of the counters showed the council took pride in the steps forward it is making for bike riders.

"Generally speaking, we think it's a good thing, we certainly encourage Brisbane CIty Council to continue to develop the bike way networks around Brisbane," he said.

"Even though they want to show the step forward we still are at the stage where it's an incomplete [bike] network.

"We think there is more to be done to be able to ride your bike to destinations in the CBD itself."

An RACQ spokeswoman said the motorists' club was encouraged to see the placement of the signs at busy sections of bike ways so it could get accurate information about how many people are using the paths for their morning and afternoon commute.

The signs that count both cyclists and pedestrians cost about $28,000, while the smaller signs are about $18,000. Installation costs about $2000 to $3000.

The first signs will be installed mid-2017.

[ozbob]

Have your say on the Sylvan Rd peak bike lanes trial here: https://t.co/3PWc22R2It pic.twitter.com/haeIAV4ncI

— Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) June 2, 2017

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Moggill Road study to investigate alternate cycling connections

A new study will investigate how to make a deadly stretch of road in Brisbane's west safer for cyclists.

Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the study was prompted following a collision on Moggill Road earlier this year, which claimed the life of a cyclist.

"Moggill Road forms part of the Principle Cycle Network to the west of Brisbane and there have been a number of incidents along this corridor," Mr Bailey said.

"It's important that we identify potential solutions to make it safer for cyclists."

A 50-year-old cyclist died in hospital after he was involved in a collision with a car on February 17 on Moggill Road, at Chapel Hill.

A 21-year-old man has been charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death. His case is due back in court next month.

Six years earlier, 25-year-old violinist Richard Pollett was hit and killed on the same road, at Kenmore.

Mr Bailey said the new study would explore short- and long-term options to improve safety for cyclists and evaluate alternative cycling connections to the area to create safer cycling access from Kenmore, Chapel Hill, Brookfield and Fig Tree Pocket to the Centenary Bikeway.

Following the death in February, Transport and Main Roads employees have been in discussions with Brisbane City Council, Bicycle Queensland and the Brisbane West Bicycle User Group to explore potential safety improvements along Moggill Road.

Mr Bailey said minor safety works had already been completed on Moggill Road in recent years, but the study would investigate what more could be done.

"In 2014, changes were made to signage and line marking along Moggill Road to improve safety for cyclists," he said.

"We also completed works in 2016 between Chapel Hill Road and the Centenary Motorway on-ramp, which involved the installation of signage, green bike lanes at side streets and marking of available road shoulders with bicycle lane symbols."

The study is expected to take about eight months.

Bicycle Queensland chief executive officer Ben Wilson said the Centenary Bikeway was one of the best bikeways in Brisbane but Moggill Road was dangerous.

"We've had two fatalities in the past six years – both absolute tragedies," Mr Wilson said.

"It's a really important link but it's in a terrible condition for riding bikes.

"It's a really tough situation because like a lot of Brisbane roads they're very old and narrow and it's built for the days when Brookfield was a farming community."

Mr Wilson said he hoped improvements could be done sooner rather than later, and he suggested a service road could be used to provide an alternate connection, combined with a better connection to the bikeway.

Brisbane West Bicycle User Group co-convener Chris Cox said Moggill Road had little space separating vehicles from cyclists, and people used the road to access the Centenary Bikeway.

"Moggill Road is a 60km-an-hour major road, there's no room, there's no bike lanes on the road at the moment so cyclists and motorists are sharing limited space," Mr Cox said.

"And unfortunately when something goes wrong, it is the cyclist who comes off second best.

"If you're not comfortable with your eight-year-old child riding on it, then it's not safe."

One option suggested by Mr Cox would be to link Cubberla Creek bikeway and Akuna Street bikeway – either side of Moggill Road – via an existing underpass.

"That will help people from Marshall Lane and parts of Kenmore to get to the Centenary Bikeway," Mr Cox said.

Mr Cox said another route would link Kenmore Village and Marshall Lane along Gubberley Creek.

"We need action now, so it's wonderful that the Palaszczuk government is putting some money into this study, what we don't want to do is for this study outcome to just be shelved and nothing come of it."

It comes after years of proposed options to fix traffic issues in Brisbane's west and ease congestion on Moggill Road.

In 2008, a green bridge from Bellbowrie to Wacol was mooted; in 2011, there were calls to fast-track a Kenmore Bypass; in 2013, the RACQ said there should be a road bridge from Bellbowrie to Riverhills; and in 2016, Mr Bailey said the Kenmore Bypass was technically and environmentally feasible but there was no decision or funding to build it.

[ozbob]

13th June 2017

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Study to improve safety for cyclists on Moggill Road

The Palaszczuk Government is planning a study to make cycling safer along Moggill Road.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the study was prompted following an accident on Moggill Road earlier this year which claimed the life of a cyclist.

"We take the safety of all road users very seriously and the Palaszczuk Government is committed to making cycling safer and more accessible for all Queenslanders," Mr Bailey said.

"Moggill Road forms part of the Principle Cycle Network to the west of Brisbane and there have been a number of incidents along this corridor, it's important that we identify potential solutions to make it safer for cyclists.

"The study will explore short and long-term options to improve safety for cyclists and evaluate alternative cycling connections to the area to create safer cycling access from Kenmore, Chapel Hill, Brookfield and Fig Tree Pocket to the Centenary Cycleway."

Mr Bailey said following the incident earlier this year, TMR had been in discussions with local government and cycling bodies about potential improvements to the corridor.

"Transport and Main Roads has had discussions with Brisbane City Council, Bicycle Queensland and the Brisbane West Bicycle User Group to explore potential safety improvements along Moggill Road," he said.

"I would like to thank these groups for their input and shared commitment to improving cycling safety and we look forward to working with them throughout the study."

Mr Bailey said minor safety works had already been completed on Moggill Road in recent years, but the study would investigate what more could be done.

"In 2014 changes were made to signage and line marking along Moggill Road to improve safety for cyclists," he said.

"We also completed works in 2016 between Chapel Hill Road and the Centenary Motorway on-ramp which involved the installation of signage, green bike lanes at side streets and marking of available road shoulders with bicycle lane symbols.

"This latest study will identify options to further improve the safety of cycling in this area."

The study is expected to take around eight months.

For more information on cycling in Queensland, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Travel-and-transport/cycling.

ENDS

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane cyclist reveals what it is really like to ride a bike in Brisbane

[ozbob]

24th August 2017

Media Release
Acting Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports
The Honourable Steven Miles

Exciting cycling future for Queenslanders announced

A new strategy launched today is set to put the wheels in motion for a brighter bicycle riding future in Queensland.

The Queensland Cycling Strategy 2017-2027 sets the direction for cycling in the state over the next ten years, and is accompanied by a two-year fully funded action plan.

Acting Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Steven Miles said the Palaszczuk Government had listened to a wide variety of road users when preparing the strategy.

"Riding a bike benefits everyone, even those who don't currently ride, by reducing congestion and helping us maintain a healthy environment and more active lifestyle," Mr Miles said.

"While developing this strategy we listened to Queenslanders from all walks of life, young and old, male and female, about what they want for their cycling future.

"The new strategy prioritises the right infrastructure, policies and programs to support those who ride and those who want to ride.

"A state of cycling report will also be published every two years to track our progress towards achieving our vision of more cycling, more often."

Mr Miles said the release of the strategy during Road Safety Week was a timely reminder of the importance of creating a safe environment for all road users, including cyclists.

"We face a lot of challenges on our journey to make cycling an attractive, comfortable and safe option for all Queenslanders," Mr Miles said.

"We know that more than 802,000 Queenslanders ride a bike each week and 1.53 million would ride if the conditions were right.

"It is vital our current and future cyclists are supported by good planning and investment in safe cycling infrastructure.

"That is why we are investing $182.5 million for high-quality cycle infrastructure, planning and programs across Queensland between 2017-18 and 2020-21."

To celebrate the release of the strategy Mr Miles has also launched the #ibikeqld photo competition.

"We asked Queenslanders for their feedback while developing the new cycling strategy and we are calling on them again to help showcase the benefits of riding a bike in Queensland and celebrate the launch of the new strategy.

"By entering the #ibikeqld competition, you could win a free bike by simply sharing your favourite cycling photo on Facebook or Instagram and tagging #ibikeqld."

To find out more about the #ibikeqld competition, including the terms and conditions, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Travel-and-transport/Cycling.

To view the Queensland Cycling Strategy 2017-2027 visit blog.tmr.qld.gov.au/cycling.

ENDS

[Otto]

Re : Accident between Cyclists and Car Dornoch Tce Aug 25th.. I have commented as I have done many 192 services over the years.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/call-to-reduce-speed-limit-after-horrific-cycle-crash-in-inner-suburb/news-story/a5e5473437558b85afde298e67dad47a

My comment,

As a bus driver doing a 192 service in the early mornings, I have had cyclists overtaking me on my nearside between bus and kerb, God forbid if I need to pull into a bus stop and don't see a bike in time on my left. Riders will often not be in view of my mirrors as they tuck in behind to reduce air friction before swinging out to pass at speed. The downhill slope is steep in sections.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/901116567395549184

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/901116949425340416

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/901516948847996928

[ozbob]

 'Riding in Brisbane' guide

> https://t.co/NpAxK5bGdJ PDF

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/915334739673808896

[ozbob]

13th October 2017

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Missing Veloway Cycleway Link gets wheels in motion across Brisbane

Wheels are sure to be spinning in anticipation after the Palaszczuk Government announced funding for the missing link of a massive cycling project that's already revolutionised the way people get around the river city.

Minister for Main Roads and Roads Safety and Member for Yeerongpilly Mark Bailey and Member for Greenslopes Joe Kelly announced the last stage of the Veloway 1 (V1), Stage E, at Tarragindi/Holland Park with members of the cycling community today.

Mr Bailey said the Veloway 1 was an exciting cycleway project that when completed with this final stage would stretch 17 kilometres directly from Brisbane City to Eight Mile Plains.

"As someone who loves cycling, I'm thrilled to announce this next stage of the Veloway which is the single largest package of V1 works planned to date," Mr Bailey said.

"This final stage, which will support more than 60 jobs during construction, will be delivered in two sections.

"It will run alongside the M1 from Birdwood Road, Holland Park to Gaza Road, Tarragindi when completed.

"This demonstrates the Palaszczuk Government's continued commitment to get more people cycling, more often, on safe, separated, direct and connected routes.

"Elevated cycling bridges over the Gaza Rd off ramp and over the Marshall Rd freeway intersection will see huge safety benefits for local cyclists."

Member for Greenslopes Joe Kelly said the project would improve safety, cut travel times, improve health and reduce congestion on Brisbane's roads.

"It makes sense that the more people who ride bikes, the less traffic there will be on city streets," he said.

"This is a big win too for motorists accessing the M1 as it will provide a safe separation between cyclists and motorised traffic to enhance the safety of all road users.

"The completion of the $24 million V1 Stage D project at Greenslopes is also on track, with the recent installation of four steel bridge trusses over the Cornwall Street intersection.

"I'm excited to say that Stage D will open to the public later this year, allowing cyclists to enjoy 3.5 kilometres of uninterrupted cycleway and a seamless connection from O'Keefe Street, Buranda to Birdwood Road, Greenslopes.

Mr Kelly said TMR would continue to engage with the local government and the community to progress the delivery of the significant project.

Bicycle Queensland chief executive Ben Wilson said it was an exciting time for transport in South East Queensland.

"We consistently see upgraded bikeways getting more users, and this new section will do just that," he said.

"The contribution cycling makes to the health of Queenslanders, plus reducing traffic congestion on the M1 is substantial, so we applaud this win-win move with the V1 Stage E . "

The final stage will be delivered in two sections, $26 million in funding has been allocated for section 1 and $19 million has been allocated for section 2.

Construction of the final stage is expected to be completed by late 2019.

For more information on the project visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/V/Veloway-1-Pacific-Motorway.

Time lapse footage of work on section D can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbzy6mQryIM&feature=youtu.be

ENDS

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/brisbanetimes/status/919465365725483010

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/920694981337030656

[Mozz]

Hmmm I walked it in the wet on Tuesday night .... didn't seem to be any grippier than previously to me but let's see how it goes ...

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/923005847306776576

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Schrinner/status/932733258160361474

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Schrinner/status/935291479836131329

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/brisbanecityqld/status/935682339388215296

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Brisbane cycling boom: Inner-city workers ride bikes to work to beat traffic jam

THE number of people cycling to work in Brisbane each day has boomed almost 20 per cent in five years as people try to beat the traffic jams and overcrowded public transport, according to Census data compiled by SGS Economics and Planning.

But the research also found that those who do ride regularly are "inner city elites'' who are white collar workers, earning good money and living within 8km of the CBD.

"An increase in ridership among inner city workers is particularly significant given the sedentary nature of many white collar jobs,'' SGS said.

"While the most recent Census data shows that attitudes to riding continue to change, there is evidence that riding to work remains an 'elite' activity, primarily only a choice for those who can afford to live and work in the inner city.''

In Brisbane almost 12,000 people ride to work, but Melbourne takes the crown at almost 30,000.

Bicycling Queensland chief executive Anne Savage said the increase in numbers was impressive and reflected investment by the State and local governments in bikeway infrastructure and upgrades.

"We know, without a doubt, that people are more likely to cycle when there are more off-road pathways, more on-road bike lanes, and better connections between bikeways and schools, shops, parks, and pools,'' Ms Savage said.

She said more than 800,000 Queenslanders ride every week and Queenslanders travel about 350 million km by bicycle every year, roughly equivalent to riding to the moon and back 455 times.

"This figure represents a 46 per cent increase on the distance travelled in 2001 – demonstrating the impact of dedicated strategies to get Queenslanders cycling,'' she said.

On current trends there is no doubt that Queensland has the power to increase the number of weekly cyclists from about 800,000 today to more than 1 million by 2020.

Gabrielle Roberts, 51, from Mitchelton likes to ride her bicycle recreationally with friend Melinda Brockhurst, 50, from Ashgrove.

Ms Roberts, whose husband cycles to work every day, said it was a sport for everybody.

"I did cycle many years ago and I've sort of taken it up again," she said.

"(It's) different to going to the gym, because you're actually outside and I reckon it's kind of better for your psyche and your wellbeing."

Ms Brockhurst said she found cycling fun and enjoyed doing it to keep fit.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/tennewsqld/status/950267440138616832

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Editorial: How can we end the cycle of conflict?

THERE is a maxim that contends that when in the company of friends or colleagues, it is best to avoid discussing politics or religion – two topics that will inevitably prove divisive in all but the most close-knit circles.

In Queensland, though, there are other hot-button issues almost guaranteed to generate an argument, regardless of how guilelessly the subject is raised.

Usually at this time of year, with the summer months upon us, it is the annual and angry debate about daylight saving, a topic sure to raise tempers and blood pressure in equal measure.

The other, and it is a discussion for any season, is the perennial stand-off between motorists and cyclists – the source of as much gratuitous rage and boorish behaviour as perhaps any other social divide.

Now newly minted Bicycles Queensland chief executive Anne Savage has called for a truce, and it is long overdue. There were 248 fatalities in Queensland last year caused by road crashes, and as she points out, eight were cyclists.

Ms Savage says serious injury crashes related to cycling have been increasing by 8 per cent every year, costing the economy about $150 million annually and leaving hundreds of cyclists severely traumatised by the experience. Further, Ms Savage argues that one of the biggest barriers to more Queenslanders leaving the car at home and getting on their bikes is the aggressive attitude of motorists, and the sometimes dangerous driver behaviour that can render a simple ride a life-and-death lottery.

She is right. It does not need to be like this, and there have been countless cases of road rage directed at cyclists for either the most minor of traffic transgressions, or often for no apparent reason at all other than that they are not sitting behind the wheel of a tonne or two of steel.

The "end to hostilities" she advocates is certainly overdue, but it will only come with significant changes in behaviour from not only motorists, but cyclists as well.

When we look at the frustrations caused by cars and bikes sharing the same space, it is certainly not a one-way street. Motorists as a whole are no more the inconsiderate enemy than all cyclists are all selfish Lycra loonies with little regard for road rules or the wellbeing of pedestrians they occasionally terrorise. In fact, hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders regularly use both forms of transport.

In short, both sides are to blame for the current fear and mistrust.

There are undoubtedly too many drivers who take the attitude that their taxes alone entitle them to use the road free of slower-moving traffic, and view the likes of cyclists as the equivalent of cholesterol that should be purged from our urban arteries.

Patience is not a virtue, and they are only too prepared in some cases to abuse and intimidate Queenslanders who are actually making a real contribution not only to their own health, but also reducing congestion on our roads. In some cases, this has led to assault, or worse.

Likewise, there are far too many cyclists who take a holier-than-thou approach, exacerbating the problem by riding in slow-moving, loud-talking packs that needlessly clog the streets, or refusing to accept that traffic regulations such as stop signs apply to them. And here the same could be said for some cyclists on bike paths, who tend to view pedestrians in the same way some motorists view bike riders on the roads – as an obstacle to be skirted at high speed and with the most minimal clearance, and at times with a few choice epithets on the way past.

The bottom line is we all need to just calm down, and understand we share our travel space with cars, bikes and pedestrians, and we're all just trying to get from point A to B safely and with the minimum of hassle.

Hating on bike riders is not OK, but neither is hating on motorists or any other commuter. Just show some simple respect – on both sides – and this is a debate that will disappear overnight and we can get back to arguing about religion and politics.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/950404369018597377

[ozbob]

Letters to the Editor, January 9, 2018

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/opinion/letters-to-the-editor-january-9-2018/news-story/4a515c634176983b5f63f2f681bb9e94

ON BEHALF of Queensland cyclists, I'd like to call for an end to hostilities between bike riders and car drivers on Queensland roads.

Drivers, I have a message for you. Ordinary Queensland bike riders – our mums, dads and kids – are terrified of you.

At least one in five Queenslanders say the main barrier to bike riding is fear of traffic. Your average car weighs over 1000kg. Our average bike weighs just 15kg. You travel on suburban streets at about 50km/h, we ride at about 15km/h.

When you honk, shout and hurl profanities, we get hurt. We have a right to be on the road, and we ask you to respect that right.

When I talk to Queenslanders about riding to work or the shops, to get healthy and reduce our environmental footprint, many of them say they would, but for fear of cars and the attitude of some drivers.

Between January and December last year, there were 240 fatalities caused by road crashes in Queensland. Eight of these were cyclists and all 240 deaths were tragedies.

In relation to cycling, serious injury crashes have been increasing by 8 per cent every year, costing the economy about $150 million annually and leaving hundreds of cyclists severely traumatised by the experience.

Speed is almost always a factor, although most people underestimate its significance.

Cyclists also have responsibility for their behaviour on the road, obeying the law and riding safely. There is little doubt that many beginners would benefit from basic safety training.

Indeed, Queensland roads would be much safer to drive on if all of us felt more compelled to demonstrate mutual courtesy.

Just consider, for a moment, the possibility that a shift in paradigm could help to save the lives of our loved ones and end the tragic death toll of road crashes.

Just consider, for a moment, that if we slow down, share the road and show each other some respect, Queensland families would not have to endure the heartbreaking agony of a phone call from the police informing them their loved one is lying in an intensive care unit on life support, following an accident.

All road users were created equal – all of us contribute to the cost of transport infrastructure as taxpayers.

Your car rego mostly goes into paying for administration of the registration system, and what remains goes into general revenue, possibly to be used in repairing roads that are damaged by motor vehicle use.

Make no mistake – bike riding offers a solution to Queensland's current and future traffic gridlock, offering great hope for our collective health and wellbeing. In fact, the 2017 National Cycling Participation Survey indicated a resounding majority of Queenslanders want to see stronger investment in bikeways (67 per cent) and better connections between bike paths and schools, shops, pools and parks. Also 59 per cent of Queenslanders called for more on-road bike lanes.

The evidence is clear, Queenslanders want to get on their bikes. I beg you, please, to give us some space and show us some love. Hating bike riders isn't OK.

Anne Savage, chief executive officer, Bicycle Queensland

[James]

Cyclists have a right to be on the road. Cyclists, however, are being nothing short of arrogant when they:
- Run red lights - not just by a second or two, but right in the middle of the cycle
- Mount the footpath to avoid red lights, even in active school zones (!!!)
- Ride on the road when there are perfectly capable bikeways running parallel (or close to) to the corridor the cyclists are riding on
- Ride two or three-abreast on roads and refusing to move over when asked.

Until the cycling lobby addresses the behaviour of some cyclists, as well as proper police enforcement, motorists will continue to be frustrated with cyclists.

FWIW, I don't see any 'war' on the roads. There are issues with particular corridors, which will hopefully be solved with upcoming road upgrades - e.g. KSD will get a bikeway as part of the upgrade.

[wbj]

Cyclists have a right to be on the road. Cyclists, however, are being nothing short of arrogant when they:
- Run red lights - not just by a second or two, but right in the middle of the cycle

- Ride on the road when there are perfectly capable bikeways running parallel (or close to) to the corridor the cyclists are riding on
- Ride two or three-abreast on roads and refusing to move over when asked.

Until the cycling lobby addresses the behaviour of some cyclists, as well as proper police enforcement, motorists will continue to be frustrated with cyclists.

FWIW, I don't see any 'war' on the roads. There are issues with particular corridors, which will hopefully be solved with upcoming road upgrades - e.g. KSD will get a bikeway as part of the upgrade.

I am disappointed that this post displays such ignorance or bias.  It could only have been written by someone who has not actually ridden on a public road.

"- Run red lights - not just by a second or two, but right in the middle of the cycle"
Obviously illegal and if it is dangerous then it is to the rider.  However, unless the rider is suicidal, traffic must have been stopped or there was no traffic at all.  BTW, car drivers also run red lights or block intersections.

"- Mount the footpath to avoid red lights, even in active school zones (!!!)"
It is perfectly legal to ride on the footpath.  Obviously the cyclists' version of rat racing but I fail to see the illegality.  Should the rider stay on the road and become a potential target for a distracted driver?

"- Ride on the road when there are perfectly capable bikeways running parallel (or close to) to the corridor the cyclists are riding on"
And riders are perfectly entitled to use either carriageway.  Their choice may be based on condition of the bikeway, particularly the presence of broken glass or other discards from passing vehicles, congestion of pedestrians or other users, efficiency of the route to get to their destination, travel speed etc.  Drivers are also entitled to use any other road which serves their purpose.

"- Ride two or three-abreast on roads and refusing to move over when asked."
Perfectly legal to ride two abreast, and a third rider can also overtake those two legally.  In fact riding two abreast in groups is safer for cyclists as the arrogant drivers will think twice about overtaking in a dangerous situation (only dangerous to the rider, not the driver).

"Until the cycling lobby addresses the behaviour of some cyclists, as well as proper police enforcement, motorists will continue to be frustrated with cyclists."
And there is no corresponding onus on driving lobby groups?  BTW some drivers also display bad or illegal behaviour or are discourteous.  I don't see a difference between the road user groups.

More than 90% of fatal collisions between cyclists and other road users are caused by the other road user. 

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> State Government open to funding public campaign to end cycle war

THE State Government is open to using some of the billions of dollars in the main roads budget to fund a public campaign to end the cycle war, Queensland's peak bicycle body says.

Bicycle Queensland boss Anne Savage said yesterday she had spoken to Roads Minister Mark Bailey, who is on leave.

She said he had been positive about her proposal for a campaign similar to last year's Enough is Enough campaign, prompted by The Courier-Mail/Sunday Mail expose on violence against paramedics.

The cycle group pitched the scheme for public money to be spent changing the attitudes of drivers to recognise riders as "humans" rather than irritants and, in the worst instances, targets, on the same day it launched its "ride white" campaign.

It urged bike riders to obey the road rules in a bid to call a truce with motorists in a war they say has claimed eight lives and cost millions of dollars in injury payouts and economic impact in just the past year.

"Riders who want to signify their commitment to sharing the road, obeying the law and respecting fellow road users are asked to fly the white flag," Bicycle Queensland said, launching its #whitehelmet campaign yesterday.

"You can do this any way you like (as long as it's lawful) — fix a white piece of fabric to your bike, stick a white label on your helmet, wear a white armband. Heck, tie a white shoelace on your handlebar if it's all you've got."

Ms Savage's call for drivers to give "terrified" cyclists room and respect has stirred a huge reaction online, much of it critical of cyclist behaviour.

Among the greatest irritations appear to be cyclists breaking the law by riding more than two abreast, and the fact two-wheelers did not pay registration fees.

Bicycle Queensland and the RACQ rejected calls for a bicycle registration scheme, saying it would cost more to administer than it raised and do little to improve roads or driver behaviour.

The strident online attacks reinforced the need for a public campaign to "humanise" cyclists before more tragedies occur, some bike riders say.

In a blunt message to drivers in yesterday's The Courier Mail, Ms Savage said "ordinary Queensland bike riders — our mums and dads and kids — are terrified of you".

While she admitted "cyclists also have responsibility for their behaviour on the road", she said the attitudes of drivers made people too scared to ride.

"At least one in five Queenslanders say the main barrier to bike riding is fear of traffic," Ms Savage said.

"All road users were created equal — all of us contribute to the cost of transport infrastructure, as tax payers."

The RACQ's Steve Spalding echoed the call, saying car registration paid for only part of the road network expenditure.

He said the cost of a bike registration scheme would swallow up as much or more than it raised and do little to improve roads.

A Palaszczuk Government spokesman said "safety and mutual respect should be a priority for all road users at all times — whatever the mode of transport.

"There is always room for improvement but the vast majority of cyclists and drivers acknowledge and practise safe and courteous road behaviours," he said.

"The Palaszczuk Government is also committed to building the safe cycling infrastructure Queensland needs to ensure cyclists and drivers can get around more easily".

Safety is a two-way street

CYCLIST Mark Hill says he feels totally safe on Brisbane's bike lanes and roads during his regular rides through the River City.

The 38-year-old public servant from Annerley, who is among the thousands of Queenslanders who ride their bikes to work every day, suggested respect between motorists and cyclists was important.

He said if he does something stupid, he deserves to be hooted.

"If you show the respect and give the cars plenty travel distance, then you're going to get the courtesy in return," he said.

"Obviously a lot of cyclists are their own greatest danger because they don't respect motorists as well."

Mr Hill said he felt "totally safe" while riding his bike, despite the occasional negative encounter with motorists.

"I think more can be spent on educational programs as well to try and inform both the motorists and also cyclists to do the right things," he said.

"And I don't think there's enough enforcement there from our law enforcement agencies to try and root out any kind of negative behaviour towards either ... party."

He also said his bike path on the south side of Brisbane was good, but could be improved.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/951494860061655040

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/Robert_Dow/status/965617297468538880