The much-anticipated new veloway that connects the west with the CBD is now open.
Offering cyclists a safer, express option from the west to the CBD, the new 2.5km dedicated bike path is built just for riders and will create a safe, two lane, dedicated off-road route.
This new piece of infrastructure is a Victorian-first, suspended between the new elevated roadway along Footscray Road, with the bright-green 2.5km path running from Shepherd Bridge in Footscray to the city side of Moonee Ponds Creek, linking into the Federation Trail.
Completely separated from traffic, the new veloway removes the need for cyclists to cross six busy intersections.
The veloway will offer a safe and modern ride at four metres wide, with 24/7 CCTV monitoring, access for emergency vehicles, alarmed exits and extensive lighting.
Can I still use the ground level path along Footscray Road now the veloway is open?
People on bikes can choose to use either the veloway or the existing Footscray Road walking and cycling path at ground level.
Enter the veloway from either just near Shepherd Bridge over the Maribyrnong River in Footscray or from the city side of Moonee Ponds Creek.
As a dedicated cycling path separated from traffic, using the veloway will avoid six busy intersections along Footscray Road.
How is the veloway designed to keep cyclists safe?
The veloway is designed with safety in mind.
At a width of four metres and two lanes allowing for each way travel, riders will have the space they need to travel comfortably, stop safely and share the path.
A stainless steel mesh overhead covering lets in light and air, and stops objects from Footscray Road falling onto cyclists.
LED lighting runs throughout the veloway and CCTV cameras are monitored 24/7.
An anti-slip coating has also been applied to the floor to keep riders safe during wet weather.
Should an incident occur inside the veloway, the veloway is wide enough for emergency vehicles to enter if needed.
As an additional safety measure, cyclists can use one of the two emergency exits or take the stairs to ground level at one of two emergency access points.
These design and safety features aim to offer riders a safe journey.
Can walkers and joggers use the veloway?
No, the veloway is a purpose-built cycling corridor for cyclists. Walkers and joggers can use the on-ground Footscray Road walking and cycling path which has been upgraded.
Can escooters, ebikes and skateboards be used in the veloway?
Yes – escooters, ebikes and skateboards will be permitted in the veloway.
Will pedestrians be prevented from entering the veloway? If so, how can they travel along Footscray Road?
The veloway is designed to provide an express route for cyclists and will be restricted to cyclist use only.
There will be signs at either end of the veloway advising pedestrians not to enter.
Pedestrians should continue to use the existing walking and cycling path at ground level on Footscray Road, which remains open and was upgraded with our works.
Will there be a speed limit on the veloway?
We ask that people ride responsibly at safe speeds and be respectful of fellow riders.
How is air quality maintained in the veloway?
The veloway will be a safe way to ride along Footscray Road. A mesh cover and perforated side panels will let air to pass through the veloway.
How have cyclists been involved in the design of the veloway?
An extensive consultation process with Bicycle Network and their members was undertaken with the veloway design endorsed by the group.
The design of the veloway was also considered as part of the planning approvals for the project and was open for public consultation.
CCTV is installed and will be monitored by the Traffic Control Centre, and cyclists who do not want to use the veloway can use the existing path at road level on Footscray Rd.