The Crisafulli Government has committed $19.1 million in grants for local governments to plan and deliver new and improved walking and bike riding facilities across the state over the next two years.
The grants are provided through the 2025–26 rounds of the Walking Local Government Grants (WLGG) and Cycle Network Local Government Grants (CNLGG) programs and will support planning for more connected and accessible active transport networks.
This includes $1,725,000 for Somerset Regional Council to go towards the construction of a shared path on the western side of Clive Street, Fernvale between the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and Chatham Street in the Lockyer electorate.
Twenty-five councils across Queensland will receive funding to deliver a total of 56 projects—from Seisia in the Far North to Goondiwindi in the Southern Downs region and Boulia in the west.
The successful applications from the 2025–26 round of grants include 22 walking projects and 34 bike riding projects, with 38 to be delivered in regional Queensland and 18 across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Crisafulli Government was committed to ensuring Queenslanders of all ages and abilities have convenient options to get around their local area actively.
“By backing councils with the funding and support they need, we’re ensuring local walking and cycling infrastructure is not only connected but built to encourage more Queenslanders to choose active travel every day,” Mr Mickelberg said.
Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt said the new path would improve connectivity in Fernvale.
“Our Council is excited to build an off-road 3 metre wide concrete path along the western side of Clive Street in Fernvale, connecting the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail to Chatham Street,” Cr Wendt said.
“This shared path will connect newer developments in south Fernvale to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and provide a safe pathway for Fernvale State School students and the general Fernvale community.
“The project will also provide road widening to accommodate on-road cycling.
“Somerset Regional Council is contributing $1,725,000 to the project, bringing the total to $3.45 million.”
Member for Lockyer Jim McDonald said the project would benefit Fernvale residents and the wider community.
“Walking and cycling networks are vital to improving liveability in our towns,” Mr McDonald said.
“Better connectivity leads to better health and wellbeing outcomes.
“I commend Somerset Regional Council on their investment in this worthwhile project and improving liveability for Somerset residents.”
