Money trail continues

GET on your bike.
That is the message for City of Casey residents after yet more funding was allocated for the establishment of another bike path in the municipality.
More than $207,000 was committed by the State Government last week to build the Hallam Valley Main Drain Trail. The new track will stretch from Shrives Road to Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road in Narre Warren South.
Premier John Brumby announced the funding as part of a $1.2 million package to extend seven trails in Melbourne’s off-road trail network.
The announcement was made as part of Ride to Work Day celebration last week.
“Melburnians already use our trails in great numbers for cycling, walking, jogging or in-line skating,” Mr Brumby said.
“By growing our trail network, we are providing Victorians with increased recreational opportunities as well as promoting a healthy lifestyle.”
Mr Brumby said the funding to create just over 10km of new trails was part of the Government’s continued commitment to improving Melbourne’s trail network.
“The Metropolitan Trail Network is planned to stretch across 1200km, of which over 600km has already been established,” Mr Brumby said.
Environment Minister Gavin Jennings said the funding was provided through Parks Victoria’s 2007-08 Metropolitan Trail Network Grants Program.
“This year’s grants are allocated to some of our main trails including the Hallam Valley Trail,” Mr Jennings said.
“These trails form the backbone of Melbourne’s trail network and play a crucial role in connecting our communities.
“Each local government will match today’s funding, bringing the total investment in additional trails to $2.37 million,” he said.
Casey Council spent more than $1 million on bike paths last financial year and has committed $1.8 million for trails in 2007-08.