Would you ride a bike to work if the journey was on flat terrain, less than 5 kilometres, and in a moderate climate?
Sounds ideal, right?
That’s the situation for most people living in Horsham, in Victoria’s west, yet just 1% of Horsham workers cycled to work in 2021.
To help turn this number around, Horsham Rural City Council asked Safe System Solutions to create a Bicycle and Shared Path Plan 2024-2034 – with the aim of improving the safety, uptake and investment in active transport.
The problem we addressed
Around 60% of potential cyclists are ‘interested but concerned’ about cycling (Source: Geller, Roger. Austroads guide to Road Design 2016).
There are many reasons people might not choose cycling as a transport option in Horsham, but ensuring a safe journey is a critical step toward getting more people on their bike.
As part of our work with Horsham Rural City Council, we audited the existing bicycle and shared paths network against Safe System principles. This identified many gaps – as well as opportunities to create safer routes.
Applying a Safe System lens, in consultation with local groups and stakeholders, we mapped out a recommended cycling and shared path network that connects existing routes.
We also suggested a variety of Safe System treatments to provide a safer journey for cyclists and pedestrians and to reduce vehicle speeds across the cycling and shared path network. This includes:
- Selecting pathways to separate or protect cyclists
- Colour contrast and lighting
- Intersection safety treatments
- Traffic calming measures
- Canopy cover
- Signage and wayfinding
Plan put into action
Horsham Rural City Council adopted the Bicycle and Shared Paths Infrastructure Plan 2024-2034 at its May 2024 Council meeting – with implementation quickly underway.
“The plan will guide the council in its efforts to create a more connected, accessible, and sustainable city for all residents,” the council said.
Safe System Solutions commends Horsham Rural City Council for their ongoing commitment to supporting and growing cycling and active transport options in their community.
And we hope more and more of the Horsham community can start hopping on their bike and enjoying a safer and easier ride!
