Cycling in Albury

Albury is blessed with a “Mediterranean – type” climate and is an ideal place for cycling.  This is shown by the rates of cycling in Albury being significantly higher than the NSW average.  We are also fortunate that the Council has a dedicated plan looking at cycling in the city and future increases in the amount of dedicated bike lanes and trails and parking and storage facilities.

On the downside we also have a higher than average “crash” rate caused by a number of factors.  Council has considered many of the factors and their analysis has guided them with cycle planning in the city.  The Albury Bicycle Plan 2009 – 2014 is due for review in 2013 and this will give cyclists a great opportunity to have a direct input into the future of cycling here.

What things need to be done?

The Bike Plan envisages a continuing increase in off-road bike paths as well as an increase in dedicated bike lanes on existing roads.  The Council has been progressing steadily with the construction of paths and the path to the east towards Hume Dam is slowly progressing.  The Wagiarra trail linking Mungabareena and Wonga wetlands provides an opportunity for a path along a very scenic route.

Bike paths also provide a great opportunity for regional councils to work together to integrate the various paths and provide a unique cycling experience in the area.  Cycling should be used as a drawcard to attract tourists to the area if the cycling experience can be linked to the other attractions we have.

Safety

Safety rates highly in the Bike Plan and we must continue to focus on this.  Good signage is critical to warn motorists and cyclists of potential hazards associated with shared use of roads and paths.  Maintenance of road shoulders is very important and cyclist’s needs must always be considered in the design of facilities and “traffic – calming” devices.  The use of “pinch points” at a school crossing in Thurgoona is a good example of where the position of cyclists was not considered.

About me

I am 65 years of age and am a regular cyclist for both recreation and commuting.  I have competed in 5 Around the Bay rides and will do my 6^th in October this year raising money for The Smith Family.  I have ridden in the Great Victorian Bike Ride and Bike SA’s Annual Tour.  I am frequently out on the roads training.  When I first moved to Albury in 1980 I was inspired by the sight of Dr Allan Hogan grinding his way up the Jindera Gap and now Ioften grind my way up the same hill on training rides.  From my home in Glenroy I use my second bike for small shopping trips at Lavington and business in Albury.

I am keen to support the development of further cycling infrastructure and if elected to Council would also lobby for joint action with Wodonga Council to establish an integrated area cycling network.