Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport & Local Government and Member for Grayndler announced today that the Rudd Labor Government will provide $200,000 towards reconstruction and widening of the Cooks River Regional Bicycle Route.

Mr Albanese said that the project would improve the regional cycleway up to modern cycleway standards to also improve its capacity and safety.

“This project is part of the Rudd Government’s $40 million National Bike Paths Projects fund and a key element of our Economic Stimulus Plan.

“In total, this project is worth $530,000 and we are delivering it in partnership with the Marrickville Council and the New South Wales Department of Planning.

“Twelve jobs and one traineeship are expected to be supported during construction and into the longer term, delivering an economic boost to Marrickville and the Inner West.

“All up, the Government is funding 170 projects across Australia, supporting more than 1,900 jobs in local communities,” Mr Albanese said.

“I’m pleased to see this important investment in cycling infrastructure in Sydney’s inner west.

“By building better cycling infrastructure, the Government is also helping take cars off our local roads and reducing carbon emissions over the longer term.

“We are building community infrastructure that will encourage healthier lifestyles amongst residents and create more sustainable communities,” Mr Albanese concluded.

Anthony and Marrickville mayor Sam Iskandar with local cyclists at the announcement that Marrickville Council would receive $200,000 from the Federal Government to help upgrade the Cooks River Regional Bicycle Route.