PortBUG: The Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group.

Briony & Kids leave winter behind…long-biking on the Coast Park at Semaphore. Photo: Paul Koch.

Proposed Coast Park Route at Tennyson.

1. Community Consultation, Coast Park at Tennyson: Please ensure this last essential link in Adelaide’s Coast Park is realised! This final section of Coast Park runs for 4.8km from Grange to Semaphore Park. The PortBUG has been actively involved in design discussions over the last few months with several other interest groups. It’s fair to say that opinions on the best design for this final section of the coastal bicycle and walking route remain quite divided, mainly over whether it should actually remain a ‘coastal path’! The City of Charles Sturt is now seeking community comment. Consultation is open to 7^th November. An on-line survey and all other project information and consultation details available here.

Slide taken from this week’s PA/E Council Agenda – proposed new ‘regional’ & ‘metropolitan’ routes.

2. Port Bike Strategy Review Update: PortBUG has been involved in development of a renewed Council Bicycle Strategy and Network Plan. A draft of the new strategy and plan has now gone to Council. We expect that the document will be available for public consultation in towards the end of October. The PortBUG has requested that online feedback be available to ensure effective feedback from the community. We presume that notice will be available at the Council’s consultation page so stay tuned!

3. Bicycle Institute Quiz Night: The Bicycle Institute will be holding its 2014 Wheels of Fortune quiz night 
on Friday, October 24^th. There will be surprises, prizes and items to buy in a silent auction.
 Put together a winning team of friends to compete at tables of up to eight. $15 per person, $10 concession. Tickets available here.

When: Friday October 24, 6.30 for 7 pm.  Where: Plympton Community Centre, 34 Long Street Plympton (home of the Adelaide Bicycle Workshop). BYO drinks and snacks.
 

This fund raising quiz night enables the Bicycle Institute to operate without paid membership from members. 

More at Facebook.

The Semaphore Palais & Coast Park pathway in the 1990s – in less congested & built-up times and….

4. Coast Park at Semaphore – Update: For over 12 months the PortBUG has been seeking resolution of the contentious ‘no riding’ constraint imposed on bicycle users on the Coast Park pathway adjacent to the Palais at Semaphore. We now understand that the PA/E Council is proposing a diversion path around the seaward side of the Palais event deck. The Council’s current Capital Works Construction Information mentions a ‘Palais connection… shared path around the beach pavilion’ and through the dunes. We understand that $61,600 has been allocated for the design of this new section of pathway. What community consultation has occurred (or will occur) remains unknown!

….after extensive & unchecked commercial development has ‘crowded’ the shared-use pathway – ‘no cycling on the cycle path’!

1.  Your Say – Cycling Citizens’ Jury: SA’s Department of Premier & Cabinet are running a ‘Cycling Citizen’s Jury’ over September and early October. A Citizens’ Jury will make recommendations to government on how we can better share the roads safely. Lobbyists, activists, community groups and citizens are welcome to present points-of-view to the Jury at http://yoursay.sa.gov.au/yoursay/cycling-citizens-jury. You can comment on the blog or download a submission form. Submissions must be lodged by the 5th October 2014.

2.  BI Quiz Night: The Bicycle Institute (formerly BISA) will hold it’s annual ‘Wheels of Fortune’ quiz night on Friday 24th October at the Plympton Community Centre, 34 Long Street, Plympton. From 7pm onwards. There will be surprises and prizes to win & you can bid at a silent auction. Put together a winning team and table (up to 8). Cost is $15 per person, $10 concession. BYO drinks and snacks. Book at BI’s website.

3.  Is Sport Enough? We’re often told that young people playing more sport is the panacea for our lifestyle diseases. However is sport really enough? The answer is no! Read more in the 2014 Active Healthy Kids Australia Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Young People.

4.  Port ‘BUGBook’: The PortBUG now has a presence on Facebook, linked to our blog and web site. Our site admin is still trying to figure out how f/b works so if you have suggestions, please help him out! You can find the f/b link at our web site or go to direct to the BUGbook.

Hi PortBUG Friends,  I know that two blog posts in one day may be a bit much! However I just wanted to let you know that Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group is now on Facebook.

As Admin, I’m afraid that I am still  struggling to figure out how the whole f/b thing works – but it having our own page there seemed the thing to do!

If you are familiar with Facebook and want to post something at the page or maybe ‘like’ it or ‘friend’ it or whatever it is that we need to do, please check it out. There’s also a link to the f/b page from the BUG’s web site.

Thanks,

Sam, BUG secretary & site admin.

1.  Old Port Road Update:  Readers may have noticed that Old Port Road at Queenstown has been rebuilt and resurfaced following drainage works and creation of a ‘wetland’ in its central median reserve. BUG member David Case wrote to Transport Minister Stephen Mullighan in August, pointing out that as a result, road space appeared to have actually been reduced and asking why no bike lanes have been installed (it generally being Government policy to do so when arterial roads are rebuilt). In his reply Minister Mullighan indicates that:

• while not a freight route, ‘5% of traffic on Old Port Road are heavy vehicles’ and it is a ‘gazetted B-Double route’
• DPTI have found that ‘there was insufficient road space to provide both a full time bicycle lane and parking lane and maintain adequate traffic lane width, particularly for heavy vehicles’.

The Minister has indicated that DPTI will consider installation of timed bike lanes to operate during peak traffic hours as  part of their ongoing road upgrade programme. The BUG thanks Dave for his efforts in bringing this issue to the Minister’s attention!

2.  New Mayoral Candidate: Readers will be aware that the PortBUG has invited candidates for Council elections to submit blog information of interest to bicycle users. In addition to a submission from Dr Diana Carroll, the PortBUG has now received a statement from Steve von der Borch, also a Mayoral candidate. Steve is principal of Harcourts Real Estate (on Semaphore Road), has been a local resident of many years and comes with a long history of participation in community activities (including the Semaphore Road Mainstreet Association).

While not running on a specific active-mobility or bicycle-focused platform, Steve has indicated that he is a strong supporter of safe and secure bicycle use in the community. In conversation with the PortBUG he has also emphasized the value he will place on community engagement, a responsive Council and attention to the needs of all residents, including bicycle users.

Steve has issued a statement outlining his candidacy and has pledged to use his extensive experience in business to promote the development of the entire PA/E Council area. He has also indicated that he is apolitical and will not attempt to run for political office if elected Mayor.

Please join the PortBUG’s work to improve conditions for safe & secure bicycle use across the Port Adelaide/Enfield Council area. These are exciting times for bicycle users so sign up to receive the PortBUG Blog and stay in touch!

1.  Port Adelaide/Enfield Elections: The PA/E Council Elections are coming up in October. Feelings in the community are running high, residents want better representation on a range of issues, and even at this early stage it appears that both Mayor and Ward positions will be hotly contested. The PortBUG has issued an invitation to candidates interested in cycling and active transport matters to provide us with a profile and relevant information to highlight at our web site. We have also put together a summary of the key issues we feel are important for candidates seeking to address the ‘active transport vote’ in their campaigns. See: PortBUG Candidates Guide 2014

2.  Nelson Street Crossing Update:  In August the Port BUG expressed major concerns regarding the safety of the Harbour Loop Path’s Nelson Street crossing, adjacent to the British Hotel on the waterfront. We felt that the crossing’s median refuge was quite inadequate and put pathway users at severe risk. Following communications with the Port Renewal Authority the PortBUG has been informed that DPTI will be taking action to enlarge the median crossing refuge.

We don’t yet know construction details or schedule but we have seen a draft plan (see the blue outline in the excerpt above). We understand that the new median refuge will end up 2 metres wide and over 3 metres long. We anticipate that the proposed work will make this important crossing and the Harbour Loop Pathway very much safer.

 Bike riding visitors, Sunday’s ‘Wild at Hart’ Port waterfront markets.

1. New ‘Buzz’ for Port bike scene:  The Port has a new bike shop – its first new cyclery for many years. Run by owner Mel Waters, ‘Honeybee Cycles’ is about bikes for utility – shopping, cargo, community, touring and leisure. Mel aims to provide an introduction to the world of everyday cycling in a space that is warm and welcoming. It will combine a bike shop with craft and wares and other activities including guest hair artists and vegan and yoga workshops.

Honeybee Cycles aims to provide a community hub, encouraging people to think and shop locally and to make Port Adelaide the Cycle City of Australia! Honeybee has already applied for an Active Travel Grant and aims to offer incentives to people who choose to ride to local Port Adelaide businesses instead of taking the car.

Also planned is a PopUp-BikeFIlms-Cinema-&-Bar, Friday 26^th September featuring the 80’s BMX classic ‘RAD’. The cinema will be out the back of Honeybee Cycles in the Lane Way & will be a regular bi-monthly event – so stay tuned!

To celebrate the shop opening Mel has some great Honeybee offers, including:

• 10% off: A 10% discount for all customers who mention the PortBUG! 
• The KONA Ute Cargo Bike: In the store now. For $1,400 you can haul your mates, kids, the picnic (including the beers), go to the garden shop, cart home reno materials & even move house. Come speak to Mel for a test ride.
• ‘Hey Reflecto’ Vests: Made in Adelaide by friend Lucy – make cycling fun, bright and cheery & only $89. 

Check out Honeybee Cycles at 166 St Vincent St, Port Adelaide, 0498 585 908.

2. PA/E Local Gov’t Elections: Although candidates for the forthcoming SA local government elections are yet to be formally announced, an interesting move has come from Dr Diana Carroll who will be standing for Mayor on a ticket emphasising community engagement and representation and the theme, ‘We Can Do Better!’

Such issues have long been of concern to the PortBUG, especially around planning and providing a better environment for everyday bicycle use. Experience from car-dominated communities everywhere tells us that getting this provision right relies on active liaison with the community!  Unfortunately many residents appear to feel that PA/E Council has become somewhat out of contact with its constituents, particularly when compared to Salisbury Council and the City of Charles Sturt. In recent times both of these neighbouring Councils have been active in conducting major community-based health, planning, community development and active transport initiatives – the sort of community wide engagement strategies which appear sadly absent or diminished in our own Council area.

At her website Diana says: “I am promising a new vision for council with greater emphasis on people, places, and culture. Council should be leading the way in creating liveable spaces, a more humane community, and more support for local enterprises. We need less waste, more disciplined spending, and a more collaborative approach to problem-solving.”

Local Government elections will commence in late October and close on the 7th of November (see schedule to the right, courtesy of the LGA’s web site). Although the PortBUG maintains a non-partisan political stance, we are certainly interested to hear from candidates that share our concerns about improving conditions for active mobility and bicycle use.

We invite all candidates to get in touch with their views on everyday bicycle use across the PA/E Council area and their visions for a more ‘bike friendly’ future! We will gladly publish (edited) cycling-related information from candidates in a series of blog posts up to the close of voting on November 7th and may put up a special webpage for longer, more detailed submissions!

1.  Coming – A New Port Adelaide/Enfield Bike Strategy:  The BUG was recently represented at a ‘stakeholder’s’ meeting to replace the now out-of-date 2008-12 PA/E  Bike Strategy. Opportunity for input has been limited but the PortBUG has made some initial written recommendations re. main road bike lanes, better bicycle access to the Port CBD and improved off-road and ‘Greenway’ routes.

We understand that a new draft strategy will soon be available for public scrutiny and input via the Port Adelaide/Enfield Council web site with an on-line form. We will let readers know when this is available. This review is important – it will guide the new Council’s work on it’s bike network over the next few years so we strongly encourage all PA/E residents – particularly those from Ottoway, the Parks and suburbs to the East – to provide suggestions to the project.

2.  Nelson Street Crossing:  As part of it’s new Inner Harbour ‘hike and bike loop’, Renewal SA has upgraded the road crossing on Nelson Street. This crossing is an integral part of both the Harbour Loop Pathway and the new Outer Harbour Greenway. Unfortunately, while there are new enlarged pedestrian ‘standing platforms’ where those crossing can wait for a break in the traffic, the project did not improve the already narrow mid-road or median ‘refuge’ where people are also often forced to wait for traffic to pass.

In the BUG’s view this narrow median refuge remains inadequate with limited standing room, no protective rails and no obvious signs alerting drivers to the crossing’s presence. There is barely room for a small family to stand in the refuge and   certainly none to safely accommodate  pushers, bikes or electric mobility vehicles.

From a cycling and walking point of view the remodelled crossing remains unsafe. It also seems quite out-of-step with the quite thoughtful design of the rest of the Hike & Bike Loop. Even though the weather is still chilly we are already seeing large numbers of pedestrians, families, bicycle users and mobility vehicles using the Loop Path for recreational purposes and as a safer route to the Port CBD. Motor vehicle traffic in the area is also frequent and busy and will inevitably increase with warmer weather as more visitors come down to the Port.

The BUG believes a crossing at this point should ensure both safe separation between vehicles and vulnerable road users, and visibility of those crossing the road for drivers approaching from St Vincent’s Street or descending (sometimes at speed) from the bridge ramp. We don’t believe the current design accomplishes this!

Over the last week the BUG has observed numerous instances in which those crossing were forced to crowd into the tiny refuge while waiting for traffic to clear. Indeed, on the weekends the situation frequently approaches chaos with many drivers clearly unable to effectively ‘read’ the situation and traffic frequently coming to a standstill and banking up as those waiting swarm across. It seems inevitable that as the Loop pathways become more popular and with weekend crowds visiting the Port over summer the situation can only get worse! The BUG will ask both DPTI and Renewal SA to review the design of the crossing as a matter of urgency.

Lot’s more pics of the Nelson Street crossing and the Loop Pathways here.

3.  Torrens-to-Torrens Project on South Road:  The BUG recently attended a meeting with the Torrens-to-Torrens project team. While one of our main agenda items was to ensure that the project provides an effective means for bicycle users on the Outer Harbour Greenway to cross South Road (on the proposed rail overpass), we also found a number of other opportunities for comment. We have now provided the project with a written submission which can be read here.

4.  Holland Street Bridge Re-Opens!  The City of Charles Sturt has recently announced the re-opening of Thebarton’s restored Holland Street Bridge as a bicycle and pedestrian crossing over the River Torrens. Bicycle users are invited to the official opening on the corner of Manton & Adam Street, Hindmarsh on Saturday 13 September 2014, 11.00am – 1.00pm. Please RSVP your attendance to Sally on 8408 1397 or email spallett@charlessturt.sa.gov.au Turn up and show your support for new bicycle infrastructure!

The Holland Street Bridge is adjacent to the junction of Manton Street (running up from Grange Road) and Adam Street (connecting directly to Port Road). As the CCS says: “The original bridge, built in 1908 thought to be the first reinforced concrete bridge to be built in Adelaide metropolitan area and the second oldest reinforced concrete bridge in South Australia.”

The restored structure will provide a pleasant and secure link between Hindmarsh and the Linear Path Greenway, the Adelaide CBD and Port Road’s shops and services. Paul Anderson from the Charles Sturt BUG says “I’ve been campaigning for years over this, and now it is upon us!! Turn up for a celebratory ride across this significant bridge…”.

1. Reviewing the Port Adelaide/Enfield Bicycle Strategy:  The State Government has provided PA/E Council with funding for a review and update of its Bicycle Strategy(2008-12). So far information about terms of reference, timelines etc appears limited. However the BUG will be represented at a brief 2 hour ‘stakeholder’s’ workshop at Hillcrest later this month and will seek opportunities for input from the Port community. We hope to post a brief summary of key issues for the Review at our site asap and would welcome suggestions from the community.

2. Harbour Loop Path & Bridge Pathways Opening:  Several weeks ago the BUG was represented at an open day for the Harbour Loop (Stage 1) and Bridge Pathways. There was very obvious interest from the public in the new shared-use pathways! The BUG hopes to do a ‘user survey’ of the new facilities soon and propose further developments to Port Renewal. If you haven’t used them yet, please dust off your bikes and check the new paths out. We’d love to hear what you think.

3. Meeting with Minister Stephen Mullighan:  The PortBUG recently met with Stephen Mullighan, Minister for Transport and Member for Lee. The Minister was very interested in the various local bicycle issues we put to him and had some great ideas of his own for improving conditions for bicycle use across the Port Adelaide area, notably:

• ensuring continuity along the coastal shared use path (the Coastal Way) to create a continuous recreational facility and enhance opportunities for local cafes, bakeries and other businesses
• creation of a safe ‘fitness oriented’ training loop route around Le Fevre Peninsula, up the coast to Outer Harbour and returning along a route away from the heavy freight vehicles and road debris on Victoria Road.

We left the Minister with a draft list of issues related to the Port’s main roads and will hopefully have a further meeting with him in a month or so.

4. Agenda 2014:  Over the coming months the ‘Main Roads’ paper referred to above will be developed into a more comprehensive and illustrated ‘PortBUG Agenda’ document covering the challenges bicycle users face on local roads and off-road pathways and opportunities for further development of bike routes. We’ll also try to look at opportunities for the development of a more ‘bike friendly’ community, adult bicycle education programmes etc. This ‘PortBUG Agenda’ will be a working document that will evolve and inform our input to the PA/E Bicycle Strategy Review and our liaison with local and state government. A current draft will be at our web site shortly and the BUG would welcome your comments and suggestions.

5. InfraPlan Paper:  Adelaide transport design consultants, InfraPlan, contracted to undertake the Port Adelaide/Enfield Bicycle Strategy Review, have also recently published an excellent reference paper addressing the traffic congestion experienced in and around Adelaide’s CBD and promoting walking, cycling and public transport as effective solutions. The paper can be found here. While it mainly addresses congestion problems associated with Adelaide’s CBD, the recommendations made are relevant across the city.

6. Coastal Way:  The PortBUG continues to participate in consultations with the City of Charles Sturt and other interested parties with regard to completing the last, unfinished sections of the Coastal Way adjacent to Tennyson. Those interested can read about these final sections of the Coastal Way here and follow the discussions of the Consultative Group here.

7. Greenway Update:  The PortBUG has been pleased to see progress along the Outer Harbour Greenway with a new ramp from Torrens Road into Queens Street at Alberton and continuing work on the access pathway from Fussell Place to the Alberton Rail Station. Many issues still need to be resolved but it’s great to see this progress. Further towards the city work continues on the new bicycle and pedestrian actuated (BPA) crossing at David Trc (Kilkenny Rd), removing yet another major barrier to continuous bicycle access between The Port and the Adelaide CBD!

Photo credits: Dave Case, PortBUG.

1. First Time ‘Round the Inner Harbour Loop Path’:       On Sunday 18th May Port Renewal are holding an event to celebrate the opening of the Harbour Loop Pathway from 10:00am to 1:00pm. They’ll host a range of activities that allow you to experience the Loop Path in a variety of ways. Participants will have opportunities to win great prizes, including a new vintage bicycle. Group activities include cycling, jogging, nordic walking and guided dolphin tours. More information here.

2. Birkenhead Bridge Pathway Update:      A friend of the PortBUG recently snapped this pic of the new shared use pathway over the Birkenhead Bridge. Hopefully residents on the north-western side of the Port River will be able to try it out really soon!

3. BISA AGM Update: Bicycle advocacy leadersBISA (The ‘Bicycle Institute’) have a new chairperson and free membership! At their recent AGM, guest speaker Mark Parnell (MLC, Greens) explained some secrets of political and activist groups in finding people who share our common goal and activating them. He also outlined his plan to call on the state government to announce a new cycling strategy and his recent call for submissions on the future of cycling in SA ahead of the Velo-city Global conference starting on May 27. You can read more about the AGM here.

4. Adelaide Bike Kitchen – Velo-City Workshop:      Coinciding with Velo-City Adelaide Conference, the Adelaide Bike Kitchen is hosting ‘Velo-For’um All: Perspectives from the Pedal-Level’, a one-off event at their workshop in Bowden. All invited. ABK expect to have several luminaries from the Velo-City Conference attend and interact with the audience.

When & Where: May 29th, doors open from 5pm, Adelaide Bike Kitchen, 22 Gibson St, BOWDEN.See ABK at facebook too!

5. Free-Style Ride:   The Free-Style Cyclists  group are promoting ride during the upcoming VeloCity conference. They say “You won’t find this ride on the official program, thanks to South Australia’s restrictive compulsory helmet law. But for the international delegates at the conference, it will be an eye-opener. Come and meet participants and locals for a pleasant off-road ride on Thursday 29th departing the Adelaide Convention Centre at 3.45. The ride will take about 45-55 minutes (about 15km long) along the River Torrens Linear Park trail to the sea and then a 2km ride along the Coast Park to Henley Square for a drink while watching the always spectacular sunset into the ocean at 5.15pm.”

As they say, ‘not part of official program’! (see: http://www.freestylecyclists.org)

Liz Canning & twins on their cargo bike.

Less Car – More Bike!  Californian filmmaker Liz Canning is producing an internationally crowd-sourced feature film named ‘LESS CAR MORE GO’, aimed at revolutionizing some of the fundamental ideas of what a bicycle can do and how people can use them for every-day transport.

Changing such pervasive ideas seems to be the key to getting the urban infrastructure that safe and secure bicycle use requires so this film, to be distributed internationally, is an important and ground-breaking initiative.

Liz currently has a KickStarter campaign running, seeking to raise the US$40,000 required to finish and release the movie. As of this morning something like $32,000 has been raised with 7 days to go!

From the KickStarter website:   “In early 2011, almost three years before the Wall Street Journal dubbed cargo bikes “the New Station Wagon,” filmmaker Liz Canning began making LESS CAR MORE GO. The project is a crowdsourced documentary on the past, present and future of the cargo bike movement, co-directed by over 100 cargo cyclists. A rapidly growing online network of bike lovers from all over the world has shared hours of video footage capturing how cargo bikes change lives…

By interweaving Co-Directors’ footage with interviews Liz has shot with riders, designers, shop owners, advocates and pioneers, LESS CAR MORE GO will tell the tale of the cargo bike, from the original bakfiets and rickshaws in Europe and Asia, to the birth of the Longtail in Australia and Nicaragua, through the year 2014 when sales are doubling and tripling annually, and the global cargo bike culture is exploding!”

A couple of important features of the film likely to be of interest here in Adelaide:

• 

  The Longbike, Adelaide Advertiser, 1988.

  it gives a major profile to the pioneering design and production efforts of Ian Grayson and Bruce Steer in the late 1970s that saw the development of the Adelaide Longbike, probably the world’s first ‘long tail’ cargo bike, produced right here in our city!

• the film has been produced with high-quality contributions from many community-based film makers from around the world, including several hours of footage shot locally by documentary maker Marty McNicol!

Filming the Semaphore Cargo Bike Gathering.

You might ask ‘why all the noise about cargo bikes’ when they seem thin on the ground in South Australia? Why push the cargo-bike message so hard? The answer is simply that cargo bikes are:

• 

  Business, families & sustainability.

  generally bigger than your average bike and much more noticeable…

• directly associated with politically attractive imperatives linked to family and business, reducing the costs of daily living and of course…
• epitomize the ‘One Less Car’ message (reduced GHG emissions) and opportunities to build community resilience and sustainability generally.

As such, cargo bikes are emerging as one aspect of community bicycle use that’s particularly hard to ignore at all levels of government and society.  In other words, pushing the ‘cargo bike message’ has an important role to play in advancing key policy, infrastructure and investment causes of value to us all!

I’d encourage bicycle users everywhere, and especially here in Adelaide to consider contributing to Liz’s KickStarter campaign. Any amount you can promise will be worthwhile! Apart from the contribution you’ll be making to bicycle advocacy, there are some great bonus rewards! Check them out.             Ed.

An Easter Bike Update from PortBUG

1. Coastal Way Closure: The closure to cycling of the Coastal Way adjacent to the Palais at Semaphore is now into its second year! For over 12 months Council signs have instructed bicycle users to dismount and walk through the section of the extremely popular pathway between the Palais restaurant and function centre on one side and the Centre’s ‘deck’ built out over the dunes on the other. The BUG believes this closure is unsatisfactory on all counts.

The problem is described as an OH&S hazard for the Palais staff who face potential collision with bicycle users on the pathway. The BUG notes that since the pathway was established the Palais has extensively enclosed what used to be an open, outdoor terrace, with the result that sight-lines are interrupted and patrons, staff and pathway users cannot readily see eachother as they approach possible collision points! So whose problem is it really? This is the question that has taxed us as we’ve awaited a promised solution from the PA/E Council over the past 12 months.

We are now told that solutions have been proposed but have yet to be discussed with all stakeholders. We understand that information on proposals to resolve the situation will be available soon. We wait with bated breath! (Photos: Dave Case)

2. New Greenway Possibility for Ottoway? The PortBUG was recently contacted by the Ottoway Network, a group of local residents striving to improve their local environment in the suburbs immediately to the east of the Port along the northern side of Grand Junction Road. Running from the old Rosewater Rail Yards adjacent to Lipson street, the Rosewater rail reserve extends eastwards to merge with the now vacant Finsbury Rail Line reserve near Eastern Parade, Ottoway. The Finsbury Line originally ran north from the Outer Harbour Line (near Port Road) through Cheltenham, Pennington and Angle Park, across Grand Junction Road and through Ottoway to join up with the line running west from Dry Creek which still extends out to the marshaling yards out along the Port River.

Although now partially built over, much of the Finsbury Reserve remains as a stretch of vacant land several 100 metres long and about 50 metres wide. The local community has proposed to both the State Government and the PA/E Council that it be transformed, along with the adjoining Rosewater Line rail reserve, into a parkway. Development possibilities include sporting and play grounds, grassed areas, wet lands, a dog park and most importantly (from the BUG’s viewpoint) an opportunity for a joined-up shared-use pathway allowing bicycle users to ride safely and securely as far as the shops and services in Port Adelaide and the new Outer Harbour Greenway!

What we have in fact is an opportunity for a new Greenway paralleling Grand Junction Road and joining these otherwise isolated (from a cycling p.o.v) suburbs directly to the Port and the City-to-Outer Harbour route (click map for details)!

This is an exciting possibility which your BUG intends working on with the Ottoway Network! For more information please go to the Ottoway Network’s web site at: http://www.ottoway.info/bulletin.htm  The Network is seeking signatures, particularly those of local residents for a petition calling for government investment in this local Parkway. The petition can be signed here.

3. Harbour ‘Hike & Bike’ Loop: The BUG has a few concerns regarding the ongoing development of the Port’s new ‘Hike & Bike’ Harbour front pathway. While we are very pleased to see new developments such as the recent and unheralded linkage down to the Semaphore/Causeway Road junction (and the possibility of joining up with Semaphore Road’s off–road pathways) – see above – we have some lingering concerns about bridge access for cyclists not using the pathways, access from the loop into the Port CBD and similar issues.We will be taking these up with the Port Renewal Authority at the earliest opportunity. The BUG is also developing a Cycling Issues map of the Port which will we hope will illustrate these concerns. We plan to have it on our web site soon!

4. Agenda 2014: The PortBUG is developing a comprehensive agenda of issues for 2014. We plan to use this agenda to actively campaign over the coming year and as a basis for discussions with both PA/E Council and State Government. Again, we’ll get it up onto the website for community comment asap. In the meantime, if you have bicycle related issues – please let us know via email or the website.

Happy Easter from the PortBUG!

2014 is flying! We have a renewed Government, new local MPs and a new Minister of Transport. And all sorts of things are happening in the Port’s bike world!

1. Outer Harbour Greenway:         The Outer Harbour Greenway’s bicycle and pedestrian actuated (BAPA) crossings at Woodville Road and Cheltenham Parade are now operational! We’ve tried them out and they’re great with an ‘average wait’ of about 15-30 seconds! Woo-hoo!

The new St Clair sections of the Greenway’s shared use path (SUP) are open from Cheltenham Parade through to Woodville Road although there are still significant issues of route design and signage to be addressed at the Eastern end!  DPTI staff tell us that a user controlled crossing will be also be provided at the end of Belmore Trc at its junction with David Trc (Kilkenny Road). Previous communications with Minister Koutsantonis indicated that DPTI would also provide a similar crossing at South Road pending eventual construction of a combined train & bike overpass!

Towards the Port new work has been completed on the approaches and surfaces of the Red Hill Bridge SUP tunnel under Grand Junction Road although much still remains to be done to complete the associated ramps and signage  on the Greenway sections between Alberton and the Port itself.

Recent work saw removal of disused rail tracks from Lipson St. Somewhere in the midst of this work the exit ramp for the Greenway Path onto Lipson St was also removed and replaced by a nice tall concrete gutter – an obvious ‘blue’ by the designers or contractors involved! The PA/E Council’s Technical Services assure us that “it was not Council’s intention to remove the ramp… Council is planning to do more work on Lipson St [and] will fix the ramp as part of this.”

The BUG continues to develop its Greenway Web Pages We are aware that even though the Greenway is not yet complete, many residents of the Port and suburbs closer to the City are already using it! If you have photos of the Greenway you’d like to contribute to our web page (we’d love some of families and children using the route) please contact the editor The BUG also welcomes any comments or concerns you may have regarding the route’s development – we’re happy to take them to Council or DPTI on your behalf.

2. Harbour Loop:         The waterfront sections of the Harbour Loop ‘Stage 1’ at the Western end of the Harbour approach completion and look great. However the BUG will continue to alert planners to need for the Loop’s connection to the off-road bike paths on Semaphore Road and our proposals for this.

The BUG notes recent work to extend the Harbour Loop to the maze crossing adjacent to the Glanville Rail station car park but it’s not known whether Port Renewal intend taking the pathway further to join up with Semaphore’s bike paths at the Causeway/Semaphore Rd junction. We’ll follow this up!

3. Velo-City Colloquium Invitation:         In the latest update for May’s VeloCity Congress, a free event has been announced – the European Cyclists’ Federation’s (ECF) Scientists for Cycling Colloquium on 26 May 2014.

“This colloquium will bring together academics, government and business leaders to look at the science behind sustainable mobility development, and the planned and current research on how to form bike-friendly and mobile cities.”

When & Where:         Monday 26 May 2014, 9 -5.30. Refreshments & lunch provided. Bradley Forum, Level 5, Hawke Building, 55 North Terrace, University of South Australia City West campus. All colloquium attendees are also invited to the Mayoral and Ministerial reception for ECF network members. This reception will be held at the Adelaide Town Hall. Please email velo-city@ecf.com to register.

4. The Port’s Arterial Roads: In late 2013 the PortBUG wrote to Minister Koutsantonis about the urgent need to improve the situation for bike riders on our local main roads – notably Causeway and Military Road and Hart Street. A recent reply saw DPTI and the Minister’s office make a number of very positive commitments which we detail at our Main Road Campaign web page.

The Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group (‘The PortBUG’) are a group of residents from Port Adelaide and its surrounding suburbs who work as volunteers, advocating for better and safer conditions and provisions for everyday bicycle use for young and old, such as:

• safer roads with improved ‘separation’ from cars and commercial traffic
• safer and better designed off-road bicycle pathways
• improved bicycle parking, especially around shops and services
• safer road crossings and intersections
• lower speed limits where appropriate
• safer routes to school
• better conditions for bicycle commuters on main roads
• completion of the City-Outer Harbour Greenway

The PortBUG also works to improve community awareness of Active Transport possibilities and to foster a richer ‘bicycle culture’.

We meet together once a month. All who may be interested in our objectives are most welcome to attend or join us.

Where:  Argos Hellenic Restaurant, Upstairs Dining Room, 45 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide (Ph: 8241 2223)

When:   The first Thursday of each month. 7pm.

Meeting Dates for your 2014 diary:

• Feb 6th
• March 6th
• April 3rd
• May 1st
• June 5th
• July 3rd
• August 7th
• Sept 4th
• Oct 2nd
• Nov 6th
• Dec 4^th

Agenda items & any apologies – contact the Secretary, 

Sam Powrie, 0414 307 413, kabir@chariot.net.au.

Best wishes for a ‘Bicycling Christmas’ from the Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group – a community coalition dedicated to Better Bicycling for Bicyclistas!

The PortBUG has been busy in 2013 and we’re confident that we’ll shortly begin to see some real outcomes for some of the  long-term projects we’ve been working on.

Causeway Road, Ethelton.

1. Main Road Bicycle Issues: The PortBUG has written to Minister Tom Koutsantonis (Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Energy, Urban Development etc!) We’ve basically provided him with what amounts to a summary of key issues that need to be resolved in the interests of safe bicycle use in and around The Port on the main roads that he and DPTI (Dep’t for Transport) have responsibility for. You can see an illustrated version of this summary of issues here.

‘Sharing the Road’,
Causeway Road, 2013?

Routes that we have been particularly concerned about include:

• Causeway Road (Exeter, Ethelton & New Port Keys)
• Military Road (from Bower Road to the Northern side of Semaphore Road)
• Old Port Road (Queenstown)
• South Road (adjacent to the new SuperWay).

The roads we have focused on are those we judge to be key routes for the further development of day-to-day cycling activity in and around Port Adelaide. We are aware that these do not reflect the full range of issues that bicycle users encounter across the whole of Port Adelaide/Enfield. This is simply because most of our active members live in and around the Port itself. So if you have comments, concerns or further suggestions based on your own practical experience across the Port Adelaide/Enfield area please let us know!

Old Port Road redevelopment at Queenstown (Photo: Dave Case)

Readers will note that one thing we have called for is a more detailed local integrated transport plan for the Port Adelaide and the Le Fevre Peninsula. Our area is set to experience much increased freight and heavy transport use – perhaps by a factor of 3 to 5 times – over the next few years to 2020. While much of this road freight will travel via the Port Expressway and Victoria Road, a great deal will want to travel South and East along Semaphore, Causeway, Old Port and Grand Junction Roads. These routes will also see increased bicycle and car traffic as well as increased pedestrian use. It is essential that this increased ‘mixed traffic’ use is managed responsibly so that the safety of all road users can be provided for and some measure of transport access and equity can be maintained. We note that such local, more detailed plans are a key element anticipated in the draft S.A Integrated Transport and Land Use Plan and we have proposed to the Minister that Port Adelaide and Environs be the first cab off the rank!

Outer Harbour Greenway at Belmore Trc.

2. Outer Harbour Greenway Update: The Port Adelaide Council, along with DPTI’s Cycling & Walking and the Port Renewal Authority have been busy upgrading (and in some instances, creating) key linkages and  through-ways along the Greenway route. You can see DPTI’s updated record of progress here. One of the most encouraging aspects of the Greenway route is the Minister’s and  DPTI’s commitment to providing a bicycle controlled crossing at every point that the route intersects a major North-South road. This includes the somewhat fraught South Road crossing, the subject of some argument between Federal and State Governments in recent times. The route will eventually cross South Road on a bridge along with the tram or train. The Minister and DPTI have however stated that “in case of a delay to the Torrens to Torrens project, a Bicycle/ Pedestrian Actuated Crossing (BPAC) will be installed to run with the railway crossing in the interim.”

New Greenway at St Clair (Photo: Dave Case)

The BUG plans to ride the new route sometime in the New Year and maybe have a picnic along the way. Hopefully some of the road crossings and linkages will be open by the New Year. Stay tuned and let us know if you’d like to come along!

3. Coast Park Development: Started in 1992, Adelaide’s Coast Park is a 70km walking and cycling pathway along the Metro coastline. It’s development has generally proceeded steadily although some sections have presented particular problems, mainly associated (it seems) with existing land use and past development.

Proposed Coast Park Route at Tennyson.

The BUG is currently represented on a working group seeking to resolve issues regarding the Park’s further development through Tennyson. The Tennyson Dunes is an area of particularly high value which the BUG is keen to see preserved. We very much hope that a satisfactory solution can be reached which will allow the Coast Park to proceed through this area. Our representatives are Tony Bazeley, Dave Case and Tim Walsh.

The BUG has also been liaising with PA/E Council for the past 6 months regarding the current constraints on bicycle use on the Coast Park bike path adjacent to The Palais function centre at Semaphore. Due to concerns about the safety of staff and patrons stepping into the path of oncoming cyclists, pathway users are asked to dismount and walk their bikes through this section. We understand that PA/E planners are currently working with all parties on strategies that may assist patrons to better avoid any hazard!

New Bike Path & Lane Junction, Semaphore Rd.

4. Semaphore Road Bikeways: You may have noticed the new off-road bicycle facilities recently completed on Semaphore Road. These include:

• a number of new bike parking rails in front of shops and the library in the Western section between Military Road and the Esplanade
• new bicycle-activated crossings and ramps at Military Road.

These facilities are aimed directly at making bicycle use safer and more convenient and to encourage locals to use their bikes to visit shops and services rather than taking the car. In particular, the sections of pathway immediately west of Military Road aim to allow bicycle users to transfer safely and smoothly between on-road bike lane and the off-road bike path!

Bike (and Skate) Path Users at Semaphore.

Try it out and let us know how it works! It’s already obvious that locals are realising that the pathway is useful for rolling on something other than bikes. We’ve seen roller skaters, skate board users, scooters, children on kick bikes, fishing trailers of all descriptions and even a roller-skate-adapted dachshund! We’d like to know how you are using the new bike path. Even better, we’d like to publish photos of you and your friends making good use of the pathway! Send them via the editor – all submissions considered!

‘Almost open’ Loop Pathway, Inner Harbour.

5. Harbour Hike & Bike Loop: The Port Renewal Authority have opened a new section of the Hike & Bike Loop around the inner harbour! It extends from Semaphore Road around the end and alongside a dock (which many will not have seen before) and on, around the western end of the inner harbour reach adjacent to the New Port Keys housing complex. High quality lighting and fencing has been installed and the BUG understands that seating and sculpture and other interpretive works are being considered. Lots of new opportunities for fishing too! The BUG is liaising with Port Renewal regarding the ongoing development of the Loop, particularly the proposed shared use crossings over the Port’s two bridges and linkages into the Port CBD. So stay tuned!

Happy & Safe Christmas from the PortBUG!

Best Wishes from the Port BUG!

1.         SA Government Releases Draft Integrated Transport & Land Use Plan. Premier Weatherill yesterday released the draft Integrated Transport & Land Use Plan for public comment. The plan can be found at www.transportplan.sa.gov.au. Comments via the on-line survey, in writing or email to transportplan@sa.gov.au. A range of public events will be held during October and November and online. Submissions close Friday November 29, 2013.

 The BUG notes some key sections of the Plan related to bicycle use (emphasis is ours!):

‘Our Plan’, p54 – More cycling and walking:

“We will invest in better facilities for walkers and cyclists at public transport stations, such as secure bike parking, lockers, bike sharing opportunities, signage and wayfinding…”

“Encouraging people to adopt cycling and walking for commuting and other transport purposes − as distinct from purely recreational reasons − is an important objective of our integrated transport planning.”

“…we will provide clear separation between cyclists/walkers and motor vehicles on arterial roads.”

“Driver education and awareness programs will be reviewed to promote shared responsibility for road safety and help develop a culture that is considerate of cyclists and walkers on our road network…”

‘Solutions and Actions’, p96:        

“Growing concerns about the environmental sustainability of our transport and land use systems and the health of South Australians mean that…walking and cycling will play an increasingly important role in producing more liveable, sustainable and productive urban places.”

“…road network improvements along key arterial corridors will be accompanied by the construction of new bikeways and walkways that are separated from the main road carriageway and well-connected with surrounding areas…”

The PortBUG will put together a response to the plan on behalf of local communities and would welcome your comments below!

Detail of Bowden section.

2.         Outer Harbour Greenway Update:         Gemma Kernich, A/Manager of DPTI’s Walking & Cycling unit has pointed the PtBUG to newly updated and much more detailed maps (actually annotated arial photographs) of the Outer Harbour Greenway. These can be seen at: http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/infrastructure_projects/greenways_project/greenways_project/outer_harbor_greenway

Other Greenway updates mentioned include:

• new shared lane markings (“Sharrows”) on local roads within the City of Charles Sturt (still pending within Port Adelaide-Enfield Council)
  

  Greenway sharrows in CCS.

• an interim route marked along local streets at Bowden (the Greenway will eventually follow a new local street between Chief St and Park Tce).
• to assist with crossing South Road at Croydon, a bicycle/pedestrian actuated crossing (BPAC) will be installed to run with the railway crossing (to be eventually replaced by a bicycle/rail overpass).
• at David Tce, Kilkenny a new BPAC is under design.
• at Woodville Road a BPAC is currently being installed, to be completed by November 2013.
• at Cheltenham Parade a new signalised crossing is being installed to connect the shared use path across Cheltenham Pde to Buller Tce (via a 100m section of off-road pathway).
  

  BPAC installation at Cheltenham Parade.

• at Alberton railway station an existing path between Fussell Pl and Station Pl will be widened and improved. The path will connect the Greenway to the Alberton railway station.
  

  Birkenhead Bridge Plan.

• a new shared-use path is proposed to connect the Greenway across the Port River on the Birkenhead Bridge
• the Greenway route will cross Semaphore Rd via a BPAC at Meade St and continue towards North Haven on local streets.

The web site also notes that Greenway will follow a new shared use path from Woodville Rd to Cheltenham Pde, currently under construction in three segments:

• the segment West of Actil Av was completed as part of the new housing development
  

  Greenway at St Clair.

• the connection to the new St. Clair railway station and Coles supermarket is under construction
• the second phase of the St Clair development will complete the path from Actil Av to the Woodville railway station (in the interim, the Greenway follows Glenys Nunn Dr for this section).

The PtBUG also understands that improvements to the bicycle & pedestrian tunnel under the Red Hill Bridge are also about to start, including improved access and safety features.

More details at: http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/infrastructure_projects/greenways_project/greenways_project/outer_harbor_greenway  

3.         Super Sunday 2013:         The BicycleNetwork are again holding their Australia-wide Super Sunday recreational bike count on Sunday 10^th of November. The BN will donate $120 to participant’s chosen non-profit organisation! More details here:  https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/bike-futures/95142

Sam Powrie, Secretary, PtBUG.

An Update from the Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group.

1.         PortBUG Writes to the Premier:   In a letter to Premier Jay Weatherill. The PortBUG has appealed for him to ‘stand firm’ and resist pressure from the new Federal Government to shift focus from redevelopment of the ‘Torrens-to-Torrens’ section of the South Road redevelopment to the proposed Darlington Interchange and the Southern Expressway. The BUG believes that the major road and rail works that form part of the Torrens-to-Torrens project are essential to successful completion of the Outer Harbour Greenway.

The BUG has reminded the Premier that this City-to-Outer Harbour Greenway will provide a secure and continuous ‘high value’ and primarily utility bicycle route for the West and North Western suburbs. Less confident, less able and less ‘speedy’ bicycle users and family groups will be able to securely travel from the City Centre to Outer Harbour and all points between along the way.

2.        Outer Harbour Greenway Update:          The PortBUG recently sought an update on progress with the OuterHarbour Greenway from Gemma Kernich, Acting Manager of DPTI’s Walking & Cycling Division. Gemma has responded with the following news:

• ‘Cheltenham and Woodville (and Port) Road crossings should be operational ‘soon’, I hope by the end of October… David Terrace is under design, as is the Semaphore Road crossing upgrade [here Gemma refers to a bicycle crossing across Semaphore Road-East that will give access to the Northern-most sections of the Outer Harbour Greenway]’.
• ‘On the west side of Cheltenham Road the path will be formalised through the small park to get directly onto Buller Tce.’
• ‘[Construction of the new] St Clair Station is running behind original schedule which is delaying the St Clair side of the path connection (as the site is blocked by the new Station works).  My best estimate is December for this completion – the path works are being done by the private developer.  In the meantime you have to go around the Coles [car park]. ‘
• ‘David Terrace’s eastern side is a Charles Sturt matter (not DPTI land) – we are working through options for this. DPTI is doing the design work.’
• ‘Sharrows in Charles Sturt were supposed to go in last week… The signage for Charles Sturt is ready for installation too.’

Gemma also indicated that:

• There are some other miscellaneous Greenway works through Bowden (ramps and improvements to the existing paths)
• Plans to include the Greenway as part of any new rail works and future Bowden development continue as that development progresses.
• The ‘dog-leg’ detour around the old Bowden gasworks site will remain in the short-medium term.
• A section of the Port’s new ‘Bike and Hike’ path is now in place alongside Semaphore Road with another section installed (but not yet open) along the wharfs.

For ongoing Greenway updates see: http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/infrastructure_projects/greenways_project/greenways_project/outer_harbor_greenway

Gemma also noted that the first major community ride along the Outer Harbor Greenway is actually scheduled on the 24the November as part of BicycleSA’s ‘Gear Up Girl’ ride. This is a women-only event that female readers may want to consider – more information here: http://www.bikesa.asn.au/RideGuides_OnRoad_Gear_Up_Girl_Ride_Information

In separate liaison with Gemma the BUG has noted potential problems with the location of signage on the road median at the new Greenway bike crossing at Woodville Road. Member Dave Case notes that “as part of the alterations on the northern side of the rail line on Woodville Road a tall sign has been placed in the median strip. If proceeding west-to-east, visibility is significantly impaired for the cyclist. [If stopped] in this narrow gap to gain refuge, the sign makes it hazardous as visibility of vehicles approaching from the north is significantly reduced.” On behalf of the BUG, Dave has asked that DPTI “investigate this impediment and arrange for removal or rectification.”

3.        Old Port Road Bicycle Facilities?  Readers will be aware of major road and drainage works being undertaken along Old Port Road. Both the PortBUG and other local bicycle users have raised questions about prospects for ‘making space’ for bicycle use and installing bike lanes along this busy section of roadway. A local bicycle user from Semaphore writes: “Took a photo today. This is really annoying – look at the original white line which was the edge of the road. The raised section [Ed; the new kerb] is actually inside the old line and makes the road narrower. [Given] that cars will tend to keep a well away from this the net result may be cars moving up to 0.5 – 1 metre closer to cyclists!”

A BUG member also notes that it appears “rather short sighted to install the kerbing in that location rather than taking the opportunity to widen the road surface to provide for parking as well as a full-time bicycle lane as is present in other parts of Port Road. “ The BUG has asked DPTI what road markings are intended for this stretch of road and what bicycle facilities will be included. We’ll keep readers informed of outcomes.

4.        Shared-Use Pathway Bollards at Alberton:   BUG member Dave Case has been undertaking research related to utility cycling as part of his Masters studies. Recently he interviewed a cyclist who raised a safety concern re the dangerous placement of poles on the pathway adjoining the railway line at Alberton.

The pathway in question runs between the end of Coburg Road and then beyond Alberton Railway Station to Fussell Place. The poles are positioned in the gap at the end of Claire Street, Alberton, an area that is the responsibility of Port Adelaide Enfield Council.

Dave notes that “the placement of these poles and particularly their camouflaged colour presents a real and particularly nasty impediment to cyclists and perhaps even pedestrians. The position of these poles presents not only a danger to cyclists but would also likely prevent safe access by people using wheelchairs, mobility devices and child carriages (prams etc).”  On behalf of the BUG, Dave has requested a PA/E Council inspection and evaluation of the bollards with a view to their removal asap.

5.        PedBikeTrans Newsletter:    The PedBikeTrans bulletin is an e-newsletter available free at http://www.hubtt.com.au/enews.htm.

PedBikeTrans is an abbreviation for ‘Pedestrian and Bicycle Institute of Australasia,’ a networking and educational association for professionals involved in pedestrian and bicycle planning in Australasia. Non-professional PortBUG members have also found it an interesting and informative ‘read’ and a great way to stay in touch with what is happening in ‘active transport’ in S.A.

6.        Semaphore Road Update from PA/E Council:            The PortBUG has been liaising with Kerry McConnell, Team Leader, Transport Technical Services at PA/E Council.  Following a series of questions and suggestions regarding recent works on Semaphore Road, Kerry writes:

‘In 2004 Semaphore Road was identified as requiring a streetscape upgrade and extensive consultation and planning was undertaken at that time.  The final report of the review was completed and has been on Council’s website for a period of several years.  The concept plan of the streetscape between Military Road to Causeway Road is also on Council’s website.

As you would be aware, the general aim of the streetscape design (Military to Causeway) was to provide wider footpaths, provide an “off road” bike path and an “on road” bike lane whilst maintaining or improving the safety and number of car parking spaces, improving landscaping and street furniture and with public art pieces also included in the design.

The final stage of the works was the reconstruction of the intersection of Semaphore Rd and Military Rd.  The reconstruction was necessary to provide a transition between the new streetscape (east of Military Road) to the existing streetscape (west of Military Road).

Military Road including the traffic signals at Semaphore Road are under the control of Department of Transport Energy and Infrastructure (DPTI) hence the design complied with its requirements to accommodate future traffic volumes at the intersection.  When construction is complete Council will be monitoring the performance of the signals and will seek adjustments (phasing etc) where required / possible.

The layout design of the intersection is generally in accordance with the original streetscape plan east of Military Road.  DPTI required some minor changes to the length of the protuberances to ensure traffic safety was improved at the intersection.  Once approved by DPTI, the final detailed plan was posted on Council’s website.

Residents, Property Owners and Traders that face Semaphore Road between Jagoe Street and Customs Lane (over 130 notifications) were notified of the intersection works in early April and work commenced early May. The Semaphore Main Street Association was also notified.”

Subsequent to completion of these works the BUG had suggested use of green asphalt surfacing to highlight key sections of bike path where it diverges into the on-road lane and off-road paths on the northern side of Semaphore Road. Kerry notes that as “this would be considered to be a non-standard use of such a treatment, Council does not propose to implement green bikes lanes at this location.”

1. PortBUG Completes Another Successful Recon Ride: Congratulations to

PortBUG members meet up with PA/E’s Kerrie McConnell for an Outer Harbour Greenway Recon Ride (Kerrie in red).

BUG members who got out of bed early this Sunday morning to participate in a reconnaissance ride with Kerrie McConnell, Team Leader Transport, Port Adelaide/Enf. Council. And thanks to Kerrie for giving up some of her valuable family time and coming out on the weekend for what was essentially (for her) ‘work business’. Not only has she been declared a full fledged ‘BUG Member’ (mail list optional), she deserves PAE ‘Employee of the Month’ for so assiduously following up consultation with the community!

Kerrie & BUG members confer.

The BUG felt it important to do this ride with Kerrie as she will have oversight of much of the work that will be required to connect the main ‘railway terraces’ section of the Outer Harbour Greenway to the Port CBD and beyond. The route in question starts at the Greenway ‘exit’ from Belmore Terrace at Fussell Place, Alberton and winds through Alberton and Rosewater on local roads to join up with the Gilman Railway Yard paths at the Redhill Bridge, and thence to the Waterfront Harbour Loop Path via Lipson St. There are many infrastructure and traffic management issues to be addressed along the way, especially if the new Greenway is to cater for casual bicycle users, families, the less able and for tourists and others unfamiliar with the route.

Coffee & cake!

Thanks also to Leslie for organising the ride (and for the great cake) and to Bruce for the extra coffee!

The BUG will shortly create a dedicated Outer Harbour Greenway page at our web site and upload some of today’s photos and conversation there – see: http://portadbug.org

The BUG also briefly discussed with Kerrie some of the issues we have encountered regarding Semaphore Road, particularly:

• the need for some more comprehensive road treatments, signage, refuge (or rest-rail) facilities at the side road crossings
• issues associated with recent works at the Semaphore and Military Road junction
• a need to develop some online advisory materials to better explain to the public how the off-road paths might best be used.

The BUG looks forward to further liaison with Kerrie as work on this key section of the Outer Harbour Greenway proceeds.

2. Mid-winter edition of the Bicycle Institute’s Pedal Update:

 The July edition of Pedal Update is available to read, download and share at. In this edition an report on the presentation given at the AGM in May from The Office of Cycling and Walking on the work they are doing on Adelaide’s Greenways and Cycling Network, a tale of travel by bike into Oman, ‘bike boxes’ and safer cycling in the city, new committee members and upcoming cycling events (including BISA’s first quiz night in September).

 You can read Pedal Update online at issuu or download it as a PDF here: http://issuu.com/gusrn/docs/pedal_update_june_2013?e=1156682/3746522

3. The dream of the car is over:
 Jason Thompson from Monash University wrote an interesting article for The Conversation last week. It’s worth a read! From Adelaide’s InDaily News: http://indaily.com.au/opinion/2013/07/08/the-dream-of-the-car-is-over

4. Ross Evans leaves a note! Ross Evans, inventor of the now world-famous Xtracycle has left a very nice comment at the Portadbug web site’s ‘Longbike’ page: https://portadbug.org/the-adelaide-longbike-an-earlier-cargo-bike-movement.  

Ian Grayson & friends, Adelaide Advertiser, December 1988.

This page documents a unique episode in Adelaide’s cultural history when a home-grown cargo-bike (and car-free) movement emerged in the late 1970s and the 1980s, revolving around the development of what may have been the world’s first ‘longtail’ bicycle – the Adelaide Longbike. Ross, now a major force in the re-emergence of ‘practical’ cycling in the USA, writes:

“I love knowing this history! When I traveled through Australia in 2001, I brought one of the first bolt-on Longtail kits that we had made in Taiwan (unfortunately stolen in Byron). I wish that I had known about you guys then. I hope to come back early 2014. Maybe we can all meet up?
Also, you may have seen that Liz released two new videos. This “teaser”: http://lizcanning.com/Liz_Canning_Creative/LESS_CAR_MORE_GO_2013_Update_video.html and the link below that video is to the longer “Birth of an American Cargo Bike”. 
My hat is off to you all and Ian in particular for helping make his ideas known. As Liz tells in her story, I saw a 3 pager about the Ho Chi Minh bike while I was studying vehicle design at CESTA – the appropriate technology center in San Salvador. Later, I was deeply influenced by a Canadian named Randy Parent who was living and working in Managua, Nicaragua – who was designing and building longtail cargo bikes with 20″ wheels. The rest, as they say, is history.
 All the best,
 Ross Evans (Xtracycle’s Founding Father)”.

The Adelaide Longbike.

The videos that Ross mentions are a ‘teaser’ and trailer for a fantastic crowd-sourced, feature-length film that PortBUG and Bicycle Institute members have contributed to with help from local videographer Marty McNicol. The latest versions feature the Adelaide Longbike and acknowledge the world-wide movement’s origins in Adelaide! The PortBUG congratulates our member Bruce Steer and his pal, Ian Grayson on at long last getting some of the recognition they so rightly deserve!

5. Adelaide Hosts International Track Series: Adelaide’s velodrome at Gepps Cross will host the five-day International Track Series next week, showcasing the world-class venue as athletes from the South Australian Sports Institute (SASI) compete with riders from seven countries. Cycling Australia’s “It’s Adelaide” event, starting on 10 July, is a chance to see some of the best national and international track cyclists competing across events such omnium, sprint and keirin stand-alone events as well as scratch and points races for Under 19’s. It is also a chance to see the first-class facilities managed by the Office for Recreation and Sport. The event will see international riders from New Zealand, Belgium, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China and Japan as well as renowned riders Olympic gold medallist Anna Meares and current world team sprint champion Shane Perkins. 

To view events and times visit http://www.cycling.org.au/?ID=50332

Harbour Loop ‘Bike & Bike’ Path under construction.

Port Adelaide’s Harbour Loop Update: The construction of the inner harbour loop path is progressing on Jenkins Street (adjacent to the Birkenhead Bridge and old Yacht Club) and around Shed 26, north of the Port River. The works are currently focusing on putting in the infrastructure for lighting before the surface works begin. The loop path is expected to be finished by the end of the year. http://www.ourport.com.au/Activation/HikeBikeLoop.aspx

Port BUG meets with dune-care groups at Tennyson.

Coastal Path at Tennyson: The Port BUG has been engaged in consultation and discussions with the City of Charles Sturt and CCS BUG as well as with a number of coastal ecology and resident interest groups regarding the completion of this key stretch of Adelaide’s Coastal Park. The area is unique on the Adelaide plains and contains remnant dunes of great ecological and cultural significance. The BUG will be actively involved in further consultations and is developing a position paper which we will post at our web site asap.

Winter Commuting Assistance: Meteye – the Bureau of Meteorology’s new experimental high resolution service looks useful for winter bicycle users. Check out the rain forecasts at: http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/

PortBUG Bulletin – June.

1.  Illuminart is Back! Cindi Drennan’s Illuminart is back in town preparing for this year’s Port festival (thanks to Ross for the update!) Bicycle users and owners are invited to the EL-WIRE DEMO – see details to the right click to enlarge).

2.  Adelaide Tweed Ride 2013!

When: July 28 at 12:00pm

Where: Adelaide Town Hall.

See: http://www.facebook.com/events/333580100109331/

3.     S.A. Integrated Transport & Landuse Strategy: The Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy for South Australia will guide private, Federal, State and Local Government investment across South Australia over the next 30 years and formalise existing transport and infrastructure plans within The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide and regional volumes of the Planning Strategy.

http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2013/march/aa040_2013.aspx

The PortBUG is preparing a brief submission to BISA for their contribution to this strategy. If you have any thoughts please send them to the Secretary at kabir@chariot.net.au asap.

The new PedBikeTrans Newletter is now available. You can download the pdf from here: http://www.hubtt.com.au/Pedbiketrans/1305%20PedBikeTrans%20enews%20May%202013.pdf

There’s some great reading on State, National and International topics(the pdf has lots of links). Here’re some examples:

South Australia:

• 2.7 wide car lanes in Pirie Street to accommodate bike lanes
• First zebra crossing on a government road in South Australia
• Advance storage areas to be allowed without bike lanes
• Sharrows being trialled
• Salisbury providing bike loans for residents
• Bike Art Adelaide 2014
• Velo-city Global 2014 international cycling conference (27-30 May)

Australia:

• Victoria adopts 250 watt standard for e-bikes
• Melbourne City Council bike infrastructure
• Sydney/Marrickville’s bike library
• Liverpool Hospital’s green travel plan
• Community volunteers build bike paths in Eurobodalla…

International:

• Tom Vanderbilt series of articles on walking
• UK toolkit for integrating cycling and rail travel
• Manual for pedestrian safety
• Danish advice on bicycle-friendly roads to school
• Economics of walkable places
• Health benefits of a workplace travel plan
• The rights of cyclists and pedestrians to use roadways
• New edition of the Danish Cycle Concepts
• The Potential of Delivering Goods By Bike

COOL STUFF/ TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS:

• Cool technology and art: solar powered e-bikes and more.

PedBikeTrans is put together on a semi-regular basis by the good folks at HUB Traffic & Transport. It’s aimed at both community advocates and professional planners. It’s a great way to ‘keep up’ and is worth reading!

The Charles Sturt Council has provided a planning update for the final section of the Coast Park shared use pathway – see: http://yoursaycharlessturt.com.au/coast-park-speak-out.

It has also announced:

• a Community Consultation period from 27^th May to the 14^th of June and…

• a ‘Speak Out’ consultation event on 4th June, 5.30-8.00pm at Council’s Civic Centre, 72 Woodville Rd, Woodville.

From the Council: “The Coast Park Speak Out consultation event will provide opportunity for community members and groups to share concerns, ideas and visions for the future of the project.”

The event will feature drop-in consultation stalls from 5.30- 8.00pm and an independently facilitated Public Forum from 6.30-7.30pm. Further details at: http://yoursaycharlessturt.com.au/article/coast-park-speak-out

For information about the Public Forum contact Valli Morphett on 8408 1364.

Online Discussion Forums on the Coast Park project will also be available here from 27th May at: http://yoursaycharlessturt.com.au/hot-topics

Those interested can also join a mail list at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/23LJ2C5

From the Council’s notice: “The Coast Park is a State Government initiative which, when finished, will extend along the metropolitan coastline providing a 75km recreational trail from North Haven to Sellicks Beach… The final section of Coast Park to be delivered runs from Grange to Semaphore Park. No design work has been done on this final section yet. Council is seeking feedback from community prior to developing a design process or options.”

The Port Adelaide Bicycle User Group has already participated in a series of ‘pre-consultation meetings’. A Pre-consultation Summary Report is available at http://yoursaycharlessturt.com.au/document/show/165 and identifies many issues and concerns that the community holds in common.

Map courtesy of the CCS web site.

DPTI is seeking feedback to prioritise cycling infrastructure projects for further investigation and possible inclusion in the 2013-14 Arterial Road Bicycle Facilities Program. The program provides $450,000 each year to provide bicycle facilities on arterial roads.

Not all potential projects will fit within the program budget, but your feedback will help identify priorities. Please indicate your preference for any of the potential projects listed below, share any concerns, or suggest additional improvements. Feedback will be considered along with cost, feasibilty, and physical constraints in selecting projects for further investigation. Any requests for improvements that are not on the list but meet the criteria listed above will be considered.

Potential projects were identified based on the number of reported bicycle crashes or crash risk factors including cyclist volumes, motor vehicle volumes and posted speed. Strategic value, requests and locations where there are opportunities for improvements (recent development projects or road works for example) were also considered….

See list of proposed projects at: http://dpti.sa.gov.au/cycling/arterial_road_cycling_projects

Projects on the list with a crash history are eligible for State Black Spot Cycling funding. Within the amount of funding available from these two programs, we anticipate being able to complete 8-12 of the potential projects listed. Projects selected will be completed by the end of June 2014.

For more information on DPTI programs that improve the cycling network on local streets and off-road paths see the Greenway and Cycle Paths program and state grants available to councils.

Key dates:

May 18, 2013 – Comment period ends for the Arterial Road Cycling Facilities Program

End of June 2013 – Department finalises 2013-14 Arterial Road Cycling Facilities Program list

TBA – Approval of 2013-14 State Black Spot Cycling Program by the Minister for Transport

End of June 2014 – 2013-14 projects completed

For information about Arterial Road Bicycle Facilities Program, please contact:

DPTI.CyclingandWalking@sa.gov.au

DPTI have recently upgraded their brand new Greenway pages with much more detail. There is now information available about completed Greenway projects, planned routes and current works. See: http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/major_projects/greenways_project/greenways_project.

In particular, Port Adelaide and North-Western Suburbs residents will be very pleased with the updates to the Outer Harbour Greenway page where they’ll be able to see a more detailed map of the route and an outline of the major bike-friendly modifications planned for the Birkenhead Bridge – see: http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/major_projects/greenways_project/greenways_project/outer_harbor_greenway

New St Clair Bikeway takes shape.

Proposed Birkenhead Bridge Bikeway.

Good news on the Port’s new Greenway! The BUG recently held an informal meeting with DPTI staff to discuss the linkage of the Outer Harbour Greenway into the Port CBD. We learned that construction of the Outer Harbour Greenway, one of the last stages of the Government’s four-year, $12M Greenway investment plan, is proceeding apace! Staff outlined several current and imminent activities including:

• construction of light-controlled (‘push button’) bicycle crossings at all major arterial road crossings – David Trc, South Rd, Woodville Rd, Cheltenham Parade) & Port Road
• key strategies overcoming various ‘detours’ at Bowden and elsewhere
• a preferred route for the Greenway’s entry into the Port (via Rosewater, the Railyard Park bikepaths and Lipson St
• a number of the issues that both DPTI and Councils have to consider before the route can be opened to the public.

The Greenway adjacent to the new St Clair Rail Station

While there remains a great deal to do, DPTI staff anticipate that the route may be open as far as Port Adelaide in about 6 months. While the arterial road crossings may be open sooner that that, work will need to be completed on the off-road bike path sections at Bowden, Woodville and adjacent to the new rail station at St Clair.

The Red Hill tunnel under GJ Road.

There will also need to be considerable input from Charles Sturt and Port Adelaide/Enfield Councils, particularly with regard to improving cycling conditions at the Red Hill Tunnel (under Grand Junction Road), through the Railyard Bikepaths and on Lipson Street. Both Councils have stated a strong commitment to the Greenway project and the BUG will be active in liaising with them regarding its further development.

One of many local residents likely to use the new Greenway.

The BUG had been invited by DPTI to advise on the route connecting the Buller Terrace section of the Greenway to the Port CBD. We conducted a survey ride on Sunday 7th April and will publish our findings here shortly on the Greenway page. We were particularly concerned to record issues of personal security, potential hazards around vehicle traffic and the navigation tasks and safety issues likely to be faced by unfamiliar or less able Greenway users (including children, tourists and older folk or people with disabilities). We spoke to many of these points in our meeting.

The BUG will continue to work with DPTI to ensure that the Greenway is constructed on the best route available and to an optimal standard. When it opens later this year it will not of course be ‘finished’ and we anticipate need for considerable further work, particularly on issues such as lighting, emergency services, phones, toilet facilities, bike parking, linkages to local bike networks and the many opportunities for installation of cultural, environmental and historic interpretation (including sculpture and other artistic work). We will encourage Councils to undertake extensive promotion of the Greenway to local communities, and in particular, to local traders to ensure that they are aware of the enhanced economic opportunities likely to come their way!

Look for some exciting Greenway-related updates at this blog over the next few months!

A bike parking cage installed by Western Australia’s state government at all new rail stations. Is this what Adelaide’s new enclosures will look like?

http://www.adelaidecyclists.com/forum/topics/new-secure-bike-cages-for-adelaide-public-transport-hubs

“New secure multi-user bike cages are being introduced to Adelaide public transport hubs replacing the outdated system of individual keyed bike lockers and just in time for the winter, the minister for Transport Services announced yesterday.
As a part of the introduction of the new new Metrocard ticketing system, Adelaide cyclists who want to use their bikes for part of their trip will be able to use new secure bike cages at railway, and soon O-Bhan, stations to park their bikes without fear of them not being there when they return.

Access to the cages are linked to the new Metrocard and are initially being installed at the Gawler, Munno Para and Elizabeth stations before extending the rollout to O-Bahn interchanges that are seeing a $17 million carpark and amenity upgrade.

The Minister for Transport Services Chloë Fox said the bike cages aim to encourage people to cycle to their nearest train station, secure their bike and then use public transport for the next part of their trip. This would help the overcrowding of the station carparks and give cyclists who want to commute but their destination is a bit too far, peace of mind that their bike is safe.

“This Government supports an integrated public transport system that provides a range of options to commuters,” Minister Fox says. “One of those options is riding a bicycle to a nearby station, and having somewhere secure to lock it, provides commuters with an incentive to cycle and ride.”

Each secure cage has a storage capacity of about 16 bikes and is accessible by swiping a new Metrocard that has a encoded signature as the key to open the cages. There is a $10 annual fee for cage use.

The minister says that the cages will also be available at Hallett Cove Beach, Seaford and Seaford Meadows stations later in the year. The Seaford line will also get them later when budget is available for them to be built.”

More information:

http://www.barossaherald.com.au/story/1390159/secure-bike-cages-for-gawler-station/?cs=1430
&
http://www.adelaidemetro.com.au/Using-Adelaide-Metro/Bikes

TDU Media Release From Greens MLC Mark Parnell.

“Friday 25th January 2013.     As Tour delights, bike blackspots fester   
With international cycling attention on Adelaide this week, the needs of ordinary bike commuters must remain a Government priority, says Greens Parliamentary Leader Mark Parnell.
The call comes as the Greens bike blackspot smart phone app continues to provide real time information on danger spots for cyclists on our roads.

“It is ironic that as the Tour Down Under cycling teams head up Main North East Road today for the start of Stage 4, they will pass one of the most notorious bike blackspots in metropolitan Adelaide,” said Greens Leader and keen cyclist, Mark Parnell.

“In Windsor Gardens, the bike lane completely disappears at the Windsor Hotel forcing cyclists into fast moving traffic.

“This is just one example of many highlighted by cyclists since the Greens bike blackspot app was launched in the middle of last year.

“While we celebrate the wonderful Tour Down Under, the needs of daily bike commuters must not be ignored.

“Fixing bike blackspots is a very effective way of making cycling safer and more attractive.

“I urge the new Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis to act promptly when reports from cyclists using the Greens app start arriving on his desk,” he said.

The ‘Bike Blackspot’ app allows cyclists to record the location and type of problem, attach a photo, notes and then automatically email the SA Transport Minister and the Greens. All Blackspots recorded go onto a map at http://sa.bikeblackspot.org

The app can be downloaded here: http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/bike-blackspot/id510581717?mt=8“