Coomera Connector Stage 1—Walking and bike riding
Improving the active transport network is a key objective for the Queensland Government and the Coomera Connector Stage 1 project is a significant step towards achieving this goal. A new shared walking and bike riding path will provide opportunities to the community which were previously unavailable.
Coomera Connector Stage 1 will include a dedicated path for all active transport users. The new path will be predominantly 4m wide along the 16km route, stretching from Shipper Drive in Coomera to Nerang–Broadbeach Road in Nerang.
All forms of active transport will be accommodated, such as commuter and leisure bike riders, pedestrians, people with prams, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs.
Connecting communities
The shared walking and bike riding path will significantly improve connectivity for the Gold Coast’s northern suburbs by providing a high-quality, direct north-south route between Shipper Drive and Nerang–Broadbeach Road. It will deliver enhance accessibility and connectivity between key destinations in Coomera and Helensvale with a new walking and bike riding connection over the Coomera and Nerang rivers.
By connecting to existing local footpaths, the new shared walking and bike riding path will provide additional access between local communities and key amenities, including:
- the marine precinct in Coomera
- heavy rail stations at Coomera, Helensvale, and Nerang
- light rail stations at Helensvale and Parkwood
- Helensvale Westfield
- People First Stadium in Carrara.
By providing better active transport facilities, the Coomera Connector will make it quicker, safer and more convenient for people to access these key community hubs.
In some sections of Stage 1, the walking and bike riding path may run adjacent to the new motorway lanes but will be separated by concrete safety barriers or noise barriers. In areas with sufficient space and fewer design constraints, the shared path may be located away from the motorway and closer to residential areas. The path will form a Principal Cycle Route providing a spine from which local cycle networks are built.
Additionally, the shared path will feature a rest stop at Coomera which will include shelter, seating, and landscaping.
What are the benefits of walking and bike riding?
Every time an active transport option is provided there is an opportunity to:
- improve health, fitness and overall wellbeing
- enhance mobility, and accessibility for people with disabilities
- reduce environment impact
- make the transport system more efficient.
Accessibility improvements for people with disabilities
Mobility devices, such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters, are essential for people with reduced mobility. These devices not only improve access to everyday services, but also significantly enhance quality of life.
To ensure accessibility for all users, the shared path included in the Coomera Connector Stage 1 project has been designed in accordance with Austroads’ Guides to Road Design and Traffic Management.
Key features to improve pedestrian and mobility safety include:
- audio tactile devices at signalised intersections
- kerb ramps at all key crossing locations
- mid-block pedestrian refuges on local roads near interchanges that connect with the Coomera Connector.
People with disabilities or specific mobility needs should contact TMR to discuss their requirements while construction is underway.