Case Studies
Kilgariff Shared Path, Alice Springs
Design Feature
Type of project
Infrastructure
State
Northern Territory
Location
Regional
The Kilgariff shared path provides a significant extension to the Alice Springs shared path network. The need for the path was identified through the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics’ land use planning and shared path network review process. The 3.3-kilometre long path is located approximately 9 kilometres south of the Alice Springs Central Business District in the Northern Territory. The path was completed in 2016 and provides a connection between the Alice Springs town centre and the suburb of Kilgariff.
Linking Alice Springs
Annual bike counts and Census data demonstrate that levels of cycling and walking are relatively high in Alice Springs in comparison with other Australian regional centres. With generally flat terrain, a good climate and short distances, walking and cycling for transport is expected to continue to grow in Alice Springs. Distances under 10 kilometres are ideal for cycle commuting and the extension of a shared pedestrian/cycle path to the Kilgariff residential subdivision provides an excellent opportunity for active transport for residents and visitors.
The local community and key stakeholders, including local council and cycling groups, were consulted in the development of the path design. The route provides a two-and-a-half-metre-wide concrete shared path which extends the existing Stuart Highway path to Kilgariff. Wayfinding signage has been installed along the route in accordance with Austroads guidelines for bicycle wayfinding. Importantly, the path was installed very early in the development of the suburb, so that the infrastructure was in place as residents moved into the subdivision.
The local community and key stakeholders, including local council and cycling groups, were consulted in the development of the path design. The route provides a two-and-a-half-metre-wide concrete shared path which extends the existing Stuart Highway path to Kilgariff. Wayfinding signage has been installed along the route in accordance with Austroads guidelines for bicycle wayfinding. Importantly, the path was installed very early in the development of the suburb, so that the infrastructure was in place as residents moved into the subdivision.
The project offers the community an accessible and connected movement network that facilitates convenient travel to local destinations. For example, the path provides cycling and walking access to a number of local education, employment, recreational and tourist facilities including the Alice Springs Race Course, Yirara College, Road and Rail Museums and the Desert Knowledge Precinct.
Integrated transport and land use planning for the Territory includes consideration of active transport (including cycling, walking and public transport) in strategic level plans. The Northern Territory Planning Scheme includes high level principles to support active transport and at the Area Plan level, the Kilgariff path was identified as a pedestrian and cycle corridor in the Kilgariff Area Plan. Planning principles for the suburb strongly support the development of pedestrian and cycle networks.
Project team
- Northern Territory Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics
- Alice Springs Town Council
- Local community representatives
- Local bike groups
Project Cost
$1.3 Million
Health Value
- The path offers opportunities for active transport and recreation by linking the suburb to Alice Springs and the path network.
Economic value
- The path increases active access to employment and education.
- Alice Springs is increasingly a cycle tourism destination and the path provides access to local tourist and recreation destinations.
Environmental Value
- The path provides an alternative environmentally responsible transport option for the suburb of Kilgariff.
Social value
- The path increases opportunities for active transport and recreation and contributes to a more connected, liveable community.
- The fully separated shared path improves safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Use value
- The path provides opportunities for the community to engage in healthy behaviours.
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