THE COALITION has pledged to deliver $300,000 to establish a bike path linking Harrington to Crowdy Head if elected at the upcoming Federal election.
Nationals candidate for Lyne Alison Penfold, said the community has “called for this infrastructure for decades”, citing safety concerns with existing cycling routes.
“You take your life into your own hands riding or indeed walking on Crowdy Head Road,” she said.
“I know from personal experience that it’s far too narrow to accommodate the bikes that use it every day.”
Ms Penfold praised the Rotary Club of Taree on Manning for its advocacy to further the project.
She said the path would provide safe passage for local bike riders, and create a “fabulous tourist attraction” showcasing the history, flora and fauna of the area.
“This is a genuine longterm investment in the lifestyle and liveability of this beautiful part of the coast.”
Ms Penfold said the project had been identified in Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie’s 2030 Vision, the 2016 Greater Taree City Council Harrington/Crowdy Open Space Action Plan and again in MidCoast Council’s Open Space and Recreation Strategy 2023-2035.
“If elected, I will work with the community and the Council to ensure there is strong collaboration to meet the community’s vision,” she said.
“A safe and scenic bikepath really will fill a ‘missing link’ in our local tourism infrastructure, draw more visitors to the region and put more dollars in the pockets of local businesses – a true win-win for the community.”
