A green and pleasant city: Proposed street upgrades out for comment

Wider paths, more greenery and street furniture are proposed for key city streets and the Dickson Group Centre in new designs released for community feedback this week.

The pedestrian-friendly streetscapes aim to create an easier flow, better connectivity, and a safer environment for people, as well as to support businesses.

The proposed upgrades include Alinga Street west, Cooyong Street, City Walk and the Dickson Group Centre.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said four business precincts would benefit from more trees, street furniture, bike lanes, wider footpaths and safer crossings.

“These streetscape upgrades identify key opportunities to reshape how people work and play in the City Centre, Braddon and Dickson,” Mr Barr said.

“These streets are not only frequented by more workers and tourists than any other place in Canberra, but also provide important places for the community to come together, have fun and feel a sense of belonging.

“This is an opportunity to create modern streets that better support the diverse needs of our city. A crucial part of this is improving our infrastructure to make it safer, easier and quicker for pedestrians to move around — an outcome that also provides health, community and economic benefits.”

The proposed upgrades aim to reduce travel time for pedestrians and improve links to public transport for easier access to buses and light rail, while more green spaces, including garden beds, grass and tree cover, should reduce urban heat and improve air quality.

The installation of street furniture and outdoor dining areas will provide respite for shoppers and visitors, as well as support local cafes, bars and restaurants.

Pedestrian crossings will also be improved to make walking safer and more convenient.

Acting Executive Group Manager Urbanisation and Renewal at the City Renewal Authority Lucy Wilson urged people of all ages to share ideas and feedback on the new designs.

“Everyone is a pedestrian at some stage of their journey, so everyone has an important perspective on the features of better city streets,” she said.

“We’re installing engaging signage in each location and will also run pop-ups featuring a tabletop game in which you can design your perfect street.

“These activities are about connecting with people of all ages, explaining design choices and trade-offs, and encouraging feedback.”

What’s planned for each area:

Cooyong Street

• Enhanced north-south connections between the City and Braddon.
• Roads, cycleways and footpaths that balance the needs of all community members.
• Improved connectivity with existing and new cycle routes.
• Increased tree canopy and plantings.
• Unique street identity through selected materials and plantings.

Alinga Street

• Wider pedestrian paths and increased tree canopy for a better public transport experience.
• Improved pedestrian and active transport infrastructure for east-west connectivity.
• Safer public realm with expanded pedestrian areas and optimised intersections.
• Creation of safe, comfortable and equitable public spaces.
• Flexible, vibrant space with wider paths, plantings and street furniture.

City Walk

• Raised seating for better viewing of events like the Multicultural Festival.
• New furniture, level pavements and playful urban elements.
• Upgraded lighting for added safety.
• Sustainability features like garden beds, grassed areas and new trees.
• Ongoing engagement with the Ngunnawal community for cultural inclusion.
  

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Dickson streetscapes

• Improved pedestrian crossings and footpaths for safety and connectivity.
• High-quality public seating, lighting, landscaping and outdoor dining areas.
• More trees and permeable surfaces for better thermal comfort and climate resilience.
• Safer environment for cycling with wider paths and reduced speed limits.

To learn more and complete a survey, visit YourSay.