Cyclists are describing as “dangerous” the alternative route implemented while a section of Federation Trail is closed for four years for the West Gate Tunnel project.
Altona’s Jennifer Williams says the cycling detour along Millers and Blackshaws roads, while a two-kilometre stretch of the trail is closed for construction of new freeway lanes, is “horrendous”.
“There are many, many trucks and the road is very busy – it’s not a great place for cyclists or people on foot,” she said.
“They have diverted people down Millers Road and they have a cyclist dismount sign, which is a bit odd for a bike route.
“The worst part is Blackshaws Road, because it has a huge number of trucks, no bike lane and it’s extremely busy with all sorts of traffic.”
Ms Williams said she was also worried about children who used the route to go to school in Altona North.
A state government spokesman said safety was the No.1 consideration for any detour route.
“The Western Distributor Authority has carried out extensive planning work, looked at a number of options, consulted with the local council and Bicycle Victoria to ensure the detour being implemented is a safe option for cyclists and pedestrians,” he said.
“When complete, the West Gate Tunnel project will deliver more than 14 kilometres of new and upgraded paths, making it safer and easier for more people to walk or cycle.”
With Benjamin Millar
