Kingborough Council has requested the Minister for Infrastructure fund the construction of a crucial pedestrian bridge over the Channel Highway, connecting Huntingfield and Whitewater Estate.
Mayor, Paula Wriedt expressed disappointment that the pedestrian bridge was not included in the State Government’s $76 million Algona Road duplication project.
“Council has written to the Minister, urging the State Government to include the overpass in the project,” Cr Wriedt said.
“A pedestrian bridge is vital for Kingborough residents to access essential infrastructure such as schools, businesses, and the park and ride facility.
“The Huntingfield subdivision will add over 460 homes to the Kingborough community, making it imperative to provide residents with better access to services and alternative transport options.
“For families in Huntingfield, safe access to Kingston High School, the Kingborough Sports Precinct, and the Whitewater Creek Track for walking or cycling is essential.
“Huntingfield is home to three school campuses, St Aloysius Catholic College (Middle & Senior Campuses) and Tarremah Steiner School with over 1,000 students combined. Improving access from surrounding suburbs is a practical and necessary step.
“Providing a safe crossing over the Channel Highway is crucial for these students to walk or ride to school.
“Newer subdivisions like Whitewater Park Estate and Spring Farm, with over 600 homes and growing, currently lack public bus services.
“A pedestrian overpass would enable residents to safely access the Huntingfield Park and Ride Facility, reducing reliance on motor vehicles and easing traffic congestion.
“Kingborough Council has invested significantly in active transport infrastructure and strategic network improvements, creating a near-continuous safe off-road pathway from Kingston CBD to Whitewater Park Estate. Without this pedestrian overpass, a major gap in connectivity will remain, undermining these efforts.
“We strongly urge the State Government to recognise the critical importance of this infrastructure for Kingborough residents and act promptly to ensure it is fully funded and constructed.”