Safer highway crossing: Chapman River bridge underpass opens up more cycling and walking options

Cyclists and pedestrians can now cross North West Coastal Highway using a $230,000 shared path from Green Street to the Chapman River. The existing Chapman River bridge underpass has been paved and integrated into a new dual-use cycleway. City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said providing safe access to Spalding Park’s popular facilities for people who live on the east side of the highway was paramount. “Since the completion of the walking and bike riding facilities along with upgrades to the toilet block and playground equipment in Spalding Park, the number of community members visiting has dramatically increased,” he said. “I’d like to thank the Department of Transport for supporting the project which enables people of all ages who want to walk or ride to Spalding Park with a safe way to cross the busy highway.” Geraldton Mountain Bike Club president Paul Spackman said he was pleased to see Spalding Park and the Chapman River Regional Park trails were now even more accessible to people riding bikes. “It’s really great to see this shared path finally complete and the formalisation of the underpass,” he said. “It gives all people easy and safe access to ride on some of the best cycling facilities north of Perth.” A City of Greater Geraldton spokeswoman said City depot staff and contractors constructed the 680m off-road path.