The proposed Toowong to West End green bridge has received mixed reactions since plans were announced to move forward with the design phase by the end of the year.
Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon
The bridge, aimed at improving cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, would span the Brisbane River connecting Toowong and West End.
Conflicting Views
Although there is robust support on the Toowong side of the river and from cycling advocacy groups, some local organisations have expressed doubts. ParK It, a Toowong community group seeking to preserve riverfront park space, said they were disappointed with the lack of action so far.
The group said the community urges the Brisbane City Council to promptly proceed with this vital infrastructure through an inclusive process involving the community at each phase. This will help maximise the small remaining greenspace in Toowong and minimise damage to greenspace in West End, the group stated.
On the other side of the river, the West End Community Association has concerns about potential impacts to Cranbrook Place. The association believes that a bridge may not be the best use of funds.
For active transport, infrastructure on Vulture Street should be prioritised first in their view. Solutions are needed that alleviate bottlenecks and save people time, the association stated.
Funding Concerns
Meanwhile, details about funding for the next design phase remain uncertain, despite officials announcing plans to move forward.
Read: Cyclist Sought for Questioning in Five-Year Car Scratching Spree along Sylvan Rd in Toowong
The bridge has an estimated price tag of $190 million. Whilst the Queensland Government has committed $10 million towards planning and development, additional sources for the remaining costs have not been finalised.
Around one third of the funding required for the Toowong to West End bridge, as well as other proposed green bridges, will need to be secured from state and federal government
However, the council said that undertaking detailed design work is crucial before requesting funding from the state and federal governments. They added that completing detailed design work is necessary before seeking funding from the state and federal governments.
Published 20-September-2023