Bicycle Network are calling for the state to set aside 5% of the road and rail budget to build out the Strategic Cycling Corridors. Find out more and email your MP here: https://scc-campaign.vercel.app/
>Labor is making our transport network safer and more accessible, because catching the tram or train should be easy for everyone.
>The Victorian Budget 2026/27 invests $76 million in our tram network, including to deliver level access tram stops on some of Melbourne’s busiest streets, including along High Street in Northcote and Thornbury.
>Planning for level access tram stops will also commence along Sydney Road, Brunswick and Coburg and Keilor Road, Niddrie.
>The funding will also build a new substation at Wattle Park, Surrey Hills.
Route 86 underwent consultation in 2023! And they're only now getting around to funding construction. Also, the original consultation was for two sections of the route 86 (the other being between the Museum stop and Alexandra Pde) however they're only constructing Thornbury section. Incredibly disappointing, given the deadline for 100% accessible tram stops was 2022...
Routes 19 and 59 being identified for new accessible tram stops is good. The 19 will likely see an influx of passengers when the Upfield line shuts for LXRP work in 2029, so upgrading the tram route on Sydney Road is something the local community has been pushing strongly for.
Route 59 is set to recieve new G class trams, so it's a no-brainer for accessible stop upgrades. Still, if the timeline is similar to the route 86 accessible stops, we won't be seeing these projects on the 19 and 59 break ground until 2029...
I don't believe there's any money for new cycling infrastructure - only renewal of existing assets. This continues from last financial year, where council cancelled two existing cycling projects despite community support.