Caffeine and lycra celebrate opening of new Samford pedestrian bridge
Published 08 June 2022
Whether you prefer your coffee strong, sugary or milky, Moreton Bay has cyclists covered with free coffee for the upcoming opening of the $5.7 million Private Percy Cash Pedestrian Bridge at Samford.
All you need to do is choose which lycra gear to wear and which scenic route you want to take to discover the region on Thursday 9 June.
Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Peter Flannery invited all South East Queensland cyclists to come and try the new bridge, while enjoying free coffee from 5.30am-8.30am, with the official opening to follow at 3pm.
“I invite all cyclists to come be the first to ‘officially’ cross the new Private Percy Cash Pedestrian Bridge as Samford with a free coffee from 5.30am to accommodate the early risers,” he said.
“Previously it was dangerous for cyclists to cross the South Pine River because the existing vehicle bridge does not allow for bike lanes and vehicles at the same time.
“This is not only a safety upgrade for pedestrians but for the many cyclists who traverse our beautiful Moreton Bay hinterland area. This $5.7 million upgrade opens Moreton Bay to far more cycling adventures.
“I’d like to thank the Department of Transport and Main Roads for its $2 million contribution and the State Government for its $500,000 funding through the Works for Queensland program to make this project a reality.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said this would be a great connecting piece of infrastructure, especially once the Strathpine-Samford Road upgrades were completed.
“One of the biggest drawing cards to this area is its natural beauty and this project will make it more accessible to more cyclists to ride through here.
“I’d like to thank the Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd for her advocacy on behalf of the Samford community to make this project a reality.”
Pine Rivers MP Nikki Boyd said this bridge was a priority project for her to deliver for the people of Samford.
“The Palaszczuk Government continues to deliver across the state – particularly here in Samford,” Ms Boyd said.
“This government has invested $2 million to the construction of the bridge which will help more people get active, whether that’s on horseback, with the pram or with your walking group.
“We know for every dollar we invest in active transport, we return $5 to Queensland health benefits, reduced traffic congestion and other benefits.
“Not only is this connection providing locals with safe active transport pathways, we’re also boosting the local economy by encouraging families, or fitness enthusiasts to come out and give the new bridge a try in our beautiful slice of Moreton Bay.”
Councillor Darren Grimwade (Div 11) said he was thrilled that after so many requests from mums and dads, community groups and people with disabilities calling for a safer way to cross the South Pine River, we are able to finally open this important piece of infrastructure.
“Not only will this pedestrian and cycle bridge mean that local residents can safely cross the South Pine River, it also unlocks future opportunities to expand the existing network of footpaths and trails around the Samford Parklands area and adjoining estates to the north of the River’ he said
“Therefore there are many benefits that will occur into the future that have not been realised yet and would not be able to be realised without the bridge being built first.
“I urge everyone to come down and see for yourself, have a ride or a walk, and take in the amazing views and fresh air of our very special part of the world”.
Join us for the official opening of the Private Percy Cash Pedestrian Bridge at 3pm Thursday 9 June 2022, or swing by for a free coffee from 5.30am to 8.30am