Perth’s walking and riding infrastructure is set for a major boost after the State Government announced $8.6 million in grants for new active transport projects, which includes significant developments in the City of Canning and the City of Gosnells.
The funding will deliver more than 28 kilometres of new walking and riding infrastructure, including 14 projects aimed at improving connections to new and upgraded METRONET stations.
One of the key projects receiving funding is a $1.65 million investment to create new cycling and walking paths connecting the METRONET Queens Park and Cannington stations, along with new infrastructure around the Canning River Regional Park, linking the Canning City Centre, Wharf Street Basin, City Administration Centre, Canning Depot, and Kent Street Weir Precinct.
Additionally, $1.48 million has been allocated to create new shared paths on Bannister Road and Waratah Boulevard, connecting the new METRONET Ranford Road Station to surrounding residential, commercial, and retail precincts.
The funding is part of the 2024-25 WA Bicycle Network Grants Program, which focuses on enhancing connections to existing public transport infrastructure, including METRONET stations.
Under the program, the State Government provides funding to local governments to deliver projects that expand active transport networks, with local councils contributing matching funds.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said more than $600 million has been invested or allocated towards expanding WA’s active transport network since 2017.
“Improving active transport infrastructure across our state is a critical part of delivering better and safer network connections to public transport, activity centres, schools and other key destinations,” she said.
“Our investment addresses the need for active transport infrastructure, particularly improving the connections to our METRONET stations.”
Just under $92,000 has also been allocated to the City of Gosnells for the feasibility, concept, and design of shared paths along Spencer Road, Garden Street, and Bickley Road.
Later this year, another application intake for grants will open for projects that connect to train stations across Perth, along with a program to help local governments create bike plans based on new guidelines.
