A new shared trail that improves connections between key coastal facilities and encourages active transport has been completed.
The jointly funded project has created a shared pedestrian and cycling path link between the Barwon Heads 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Barwon Heads township and the 13th Beach Golf Course housing estate.
The 450-metre-long and 2.5-metre-wide gravel path links the car park nearest the end of Stephens Parade with the surf life saving club on Thirteenth Beach Road.
It has been funded by the Victorian Government ($300,000) and the City of Greater Geelong ($200,000), and delivered in partnership with Barwon Coast, who manage the coastal Crown Land adjacent to the new shared trail.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher said the project was part of the Council's 10-year Shared Trails Master Plan.
Trails make it easier for people to choose a healthy, safe and low-cost option of moving around their community. The 13th Beach shared trail encourages residents and visitors to travel between key areas in the town by foot or by bike.
Our Shared Trails Master Plan outlines our aim to create a fully connected network of trails across Greater Geelong. Investment in new shared trails and shared paths is a continual focus of Council, with several million dollars allocated to an array of projects in our Proposed 2022-23 Budget.
Construction began in March, to avoid the peak visitor season. The works include a timber retaining wall on the northern side of the path, fencing on the southern side, bollards and signage.
Bellarine Ward Councillor Jim Mason said shared trails were aimed at a variety of users.
The Shared Trails initiative focuses on safe and direct links to make it easier for people to enjoy a leisurely stroll, walk the dog or ride a bicycle to popular locations. We're really encouraging people to choose a shared trail because it will lead to healthier residents, less congestion on our roads and better environmental outcomes.
