Since moving to the area in 2007, my daily routine has revolved around the essential cycling and footpath infrastructure. I have relied on the Hick cycle and footpath to ride my daughter to school, commute to work, and visit the Spotswood shops and restaurants. As a resident of South Kingsville, I am deeply frustrated and concerned by the lack of transparency regarding the council's plans for our active transport links.

The Hick Street crossing is now at risk, and this is just one of many examples where our community's needs are being overlooked. We've previously witnessed the Council removing a cycling connection at the other end of this route to Aloha Street, stemming from the Mirvac development. Furthermore, they are refusing to construct the required crossing on the west side of Fabric Drive. This has raised significant concerns within the community about the safety and accessibility of our local infrastructure.

We ask: 

1. Ask Council to commit to supporting the future of the crossing. - It's not good enough to just claim that its future is uncertain and thus plan for it to be neglected and use discouraged 

2. Commit to working with VicTrack and on the Development Plan to reinstate a good quality shared path to connect Stephenson St and the crossing

3. work with Victrack to get the crossing DDA compliant (as the panel report concludes it should be. See a short section of the report https://tinyurl.com/RailXreport

For Hick st and other pathways  the council needs to step up, as without these crucial connections, residents who rely on cycling and walking as primary modes of transportation are being left stranded. The continuous blocking and removal of active transport links in Precinct 15 go against the growing demand for sustainable and safe transport solutions in our community.

It's imperative that we hold the Council accountable to not only preserve existing pathways but also to fulfill their promises of improving cycling and walking infrastructure. Investment in these infrastructures is vital for encouraging sustainable transport, improving community health, and enhancing the safety of cyclists and pedestrians.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a movement for a more accessible and safe Hobsons Bay. We urge the local Council to take immediate action in reinstating and expanding on active transport initiatives to support the health and well-being of all residents. Sign the petition to show your support for a safer, more connected community.