• Construction underway on $1.8 million Chapman Road Shared Path in Geraldton
• Project is part of the $4.9 million Geraldton Cycling Network Expansion
• The 3.5 kilometre, 3-metre-wide path will extend along Chapman Road between Sunset Beach and Drummond Cove
• Project fully funded by the McGowan Government as part of a record investment of $347 million in walking and riding infrastructure

Construction of the long-awaited $1.8 million Chapman Road Shared Path is now underway.

The 3.5 kilometre long, 3-metre-wide off-road red asphalt path will allow a safe cycling route for commuters, school children and tourists between Sunset Beach and Drummond Cove and improve connectivity to accommodation, beach attractions and other civic facilities and infrastructure.

This development marks the second stage of the Geraldton Cycling Network Expansion program of works, a three-stage initiative that will expand Geraldton's cycling network by 8.3km, connecting the northern and southern suburbs.

Stage one was completed in December 2022 and saw a new shared path constructed between Hillview Drive and Chapman Road.

Stage three is currently at design phase and will see a 4.5km shared path constructed along Brand Highway from Tarcoola Beach to Cape Burney.

The Geraldton Cycling Network Expansion Project is a priority initiative under the Geraldton 2050 Cycling Strategy and is 100 per cent funded by the State Government as part of its Cycling Election Commitments Package.

The Chapman Road Shared Path is due for completion in late 2023.

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"Our Government is committed to delivering top quality walking and riding infrastructure for all Western Australians.

"For more than a decade, the community has been asking for off-road shared paths so they can safely ride, walk or scoot throughout Geraldton - and our Government is delivering on that.

"This transformation of the Geraldton cycling network will give locals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to actively travel to school, work or the local shops, and provides visitors to the region with a new option to explore the city safely.

"The Chapman Road Shared Path forms part of our record $347 million investment to deliver high-quality infrastructure supporting safe and connected riding and walking across the State."

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

"It's brilliant to see stage two works getting underway which see another 3.5km of shared path constructed, providing an important link between Drummond Cove and Sunset Beach, all the way into the CBD.

"I know the community is very excited to see this project begin. They will be chomping at the bit to get on their bikes and scooters and get on that path.

"Our Government recognises the growing interest in active travel throughout Geraldton, and this project will be another important step in better connecting our city."

Minister's office - 6552 5500

Image caption: Lara Dalton MLA with Minister Rita Saffioti and members of the Geraldton Cycling Advocacy Group