Hobart Strategy delivers for cyclists

Hobart City Council has approved a transport strategy and parking plan which prioritises new cycle lanes on Collins Street and Augusta Road and the development of a cycling plan.

The strategy was presented to the council on Monday 22 July and adopted with two minor amendments.

Council Mobility Committee Chair Ryan Posselt said the strategy included travel options for all Hobart residents.

“Transport choice means that when we need to get from A to B, we have a variety of options available to us that are safe, efficient and comfortable to use,” said Councillor Posselt.

“This strategy not only focuses on improving our current transport infrastructure, but also encourages and enables behavioural change towards more sustainable and healthier travel choices.”

The strategy’s focus on active travel is also supported by Melinda Percival, RACT’s General Manager Advocacy.

“It is vital to address current levels of congestion by reducing car reliance and encouraging the use of public transport, cycling and walking,” she says.

In the draft strategy, an action list was published for public comment. In the final strategy, actions are prioritized based on public feedback.

There was strong support for the themes in the strategy, including more active public transport options and assistance with reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Hobart.

Measures to improve cycling conditions that should be implemented over the next four years include:

Continue to develop local mobility plans to plan and support the provision of improved facilities for active travel (walking and cycling). This will enable more people to use these modes of transport to reach key destinations in their area.
Support children’s active journey to school by developing School Active Travel Plans.

Provide progressive connectivity and protection of the cycle network as outlined in the Greater Hobart Cycling Plan for all ages and abilities, with projects for Collins Street and Augusta Road as a priority.
Implement tactical/adaptable solutions to improve bike connectivity, visibility and safety. This may include protected intersections, lanes and pop-up mobility hubs.
Support the growth of e-bikes so that more people start cycling.
Work with providers to expand the range of micromobility options, such as e-bikes and ride-on scooters.
Ensure that planned disruptions and works, such as events or construction activities, do not unnecessarily impact cycle paths in a way that is inconsistent with the guidelines of this strategy.
Develop a City of Hobart Bike Plan to guide the provision of a network of cycling infrastructure for people of all ages and abilities in the LGA. The plan could consolidate the outcomes of Local Area Mobility Plans, School Access Travel Plans and Neighbourhood Plans and consider cycle parking and signage and infrastructure upgrades for primary, secondary and neighbourhood routes.
Work with the state government to provide active transport links to public transport, including a network of secure cycle parking facilities at public transport stops.
Implement a workplace travel plan with the City of Hobart to support behaviour change among staff.
Identify opportunities to promote active transportation and engage with the community and stakeholders through public events and actions (e.g. bike day, car free day).
Advocate to the Tasmanian Government for a comprehensive behaviour change program to support the use of public and active transport and to complement infrastructure investment.
Try an area-wide reduction in the speed limit to be able to formulate a speed reduction policy.
Develop a policy for lowering the speed limit, including a review of existing lower speed limits. This establishes principles for when and why speed limit changes are considered and pursued.
Continue to improve the safety of vulnerable road users by improving infrastructure.
Create a city where you can walk, cycle and use public transport.