Newcastle pedestrians and cyclists are set to benefit from a series of upgrades, which will revitalise coastal pathways and infrastructure.
A total of $1 million worth of improvements will be installed along Bar Beach, Memorial Drive and Reserve Road, and include enhanced crossing facilities and better shared walkway connections.
The projects have each received $500,000 through the state government’s Get NSW Active funding program.
Work has already begun on the Bar Beach upgrade, which will include safety improvements to the pedestrian refuge on Bar Beach Avenue and a new shared path connection.
It’ll then meet up with a raised crossing from Empire Park across Memorial Drive through to Bathers Way.
That will replace the existing zebra crossing and refuge island on Memorial Drive.
Landscaped kerb extensions and a new narrow median will also be installed to create “a safer and more streamlined solution for all road-users in this area”.
City of Newcastle (CN) announced it would also deliver a new 320-metre-long shared pathway on Reserve Road between York Drive and The Terrace, with work expected to begin in September.
Both undertakings are estimated to be completed in 2026.
CN’s executive manager transport and regulation Ryan Tranter said the work formed part of council’s ongoing commitment to supporting active travel options.
“We’re dedicated to delivering projects that support the entire community to be able to enjoy getting where they need to go safely, with good pathway connections, safe crossings and calm streets,” he explained.
“Memorial Drive and Reserve Road are key points of access to King Edward Park and Empire Park, Cooks Hill Surf Club and the beach.
“So, improved pathways and crossings will help us all enjoy walking and bike riding more.”
The sentiment was mirrored by Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp, who said the state government was committed to “getting people out and about”, too.
“The benefits of active transport are boundless,” he added.
“It supports personal physical and mental health, environmental health, and the health of our community.
“Both of these projects extend and improve the safety of our city’s most iconic walking track, working towards a safer, more active Newcastle.”
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