Wyndham council has called on the state government to fund 300 metres of footpath along one of Point Cook’s busiest roads, arguing the lives of pedestrians and cyclists are being put at risk.
The ‘missing’ footpath forces pedestrians and cyclists coming from the east to dodge traffic on Palmers Road to get to businesses on Wallace Avenue or the Williams Landing train station.
Mayor Peter Maynard said it was inconceivable that the government could spend $120 million building the train station and the overpass yet neglect a short but critical section of footpath.
“Instead of being able to walk or ride directly and safely to the station from Point Cook, our residents are being forced to drive.
“Those who do walk have to take a long detour and risk crossing the traffic as there’s no safe crossing point,” Cr Maynard said.
“Providing a safe walking route will not only better connect our community, it will also encourage some motorists to leave their cars at home and walk to Williams Landing train station instead, reducing traffic congestion.”
Wyncity Bowl and Entertainment complex owner Edi De Pellegrin said the missing footpath was impacting on businesses.
“We have a facility that’s very popular with youth and families with children – it’s ludicrous that these people who live nearby can’t walk here easily or safely,” she said.
“The footpath needs to be completed as soon as possible to make transport and local businesses more accessible.”
Cr Maynard said despite the first stage of its extension into Point Cook opening just six years ago, Palmers Road was now one of Wyndham’s most congested roads and the council would continue to push for its duplication.
