New pedestrian bridge opens in Docklands
A new bridge dedicated to the use of walkers and cyclists has opened alongside Footscray Rd, offering a safer and easier journey across Moonee Ponds Creek.
The 100-metre-long multi-coloured bridge situated across from the Docklands Costco, separates cyclists and pedestrians from traffic along Footscray Rd.
It is part of more than 14km of new and upgraded paths being built as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project.
Construction of the three-metre-wide structure began in late 2023, along a permanent alignment for the walking and cycling path, which has replaced a number of temporary paths used during widening works on this section of Footscray Rd.
The new path is broader than the original path, making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to navigate, and it is also fully separated from road traffic by a railing.
Vibrantly coloured urban design is another feature of the path.
The new bridge connects with the path that follows Footscray Rd all the way to the Maribyrnong River, providing improved and safer walking and cycling routes from east to west.
A West Gate Tunnel Project spokesperson said, “we are giving local communities more choice about how they move around, providing better connections.”
As the project continues there will be a number of changes for pedestrians commuting into the city during the coming months.
Commuters can expect short-term temporary path closures between Shepherd Bridge and Pearl River Road before the end of the year for minor works around the bridge, and additional work along Footscray Road, including veloway installation.
During any of Footscray Rd’s shared user path closures, cyclists and pedestrians will detour via the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail to Dynon Road.
The community will be advised of such closures in advance. •