EASTLINK BENEFITS CONTINUE TO RIDE HOME

Tuesday, 15 July 2008
Premier John Brumby today officially opened the 35 kilometre EastLink walking and cycling Trail connecting Donvale and Dandenong South as part of the $2.5 billion EastLink project.

Mr Brumby said EastLink had delivered lasting community benefits in addition to the time and fuel saving benefits experienced by motorists.

“This cycling and walking path is an example of why EastLink is more than just a roadway. The $26 million trail is the largest sealed pedestrian and bicycle path in Melbourne and will provide recreational opportunities for the local community as well as visitors to the area,” Mr Brumby said.

“The EastLink Trail is a massive addition to our bicycle network and allows people to ride all the way from central Melbourne to Carrum on a series of connected paths.

Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas said the EastLink Trail featured a range of pedestrian overpasses and would eventually house around $1 million in public artworks.

“We want to ensure easy access to the EastLink Trail and the Government is delivering additional pedestrian bridges, including bridges at Dandenong Creek, High Street Road, Maroondah and Burwood Highways,” Mr Pallas said.

“The EastLink Trail is great news for the community, providing another transport route, or a safe environment for enjoyment and exercise.”

Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the EastLink Trail provides a journey through bushland preserved as a result of the Government’s decision to build the Melba and Mullum Mullum tunnels.

“The trail follows established paths through the Mullum Mullum Park avoiding disruption of natural vegetation and fauna, with six new timber bridges built through the area allowing views of wetlands and swamps,” Mr Jennings said.

“We have allocated $2.5million to ensuring this spectacular valley is managed by Parks Victoria and permanently protected for the enjoyment of the community and future generations.”

Mr Brumby paid tribute to ConnectEast and its construction contractor Thiess John Holland for their work in constructing the bicycle path in consultation with the Government, Bicycle Victoria, Parks Victoria and local councils.

More information about the EastLink Trail is available by visiting the EastLink website at www.eastlink.com.au or the SEITA website at www.seita.com.au

The section of the EastLink Trail south of Maroondah Highway opened to the community early on 15 June 2008; however the final section of the trail through this valley has only recently opened to coincide with project completion.