Geoff Lee MP, Member for Parramatta officially opened a new off-road pathway over the Baludarri Wetlands, forming part of a critical missing cycleway link along the Parramatta River.

The shared path of almost 1km connects the Parramatta city centre and existing foreshore path through Rangihou Reserve with the University of Western Sydney campus at Rydalmere.

“The opening of the Baludarri Wetlands pathway marks a new milestone for Western Sydney and allows more residents and visitors to visit and enjoy the river foreshore,” Mr Lee said.

“The path is part of an 11.4km project which will connect Westmead, Parramatta, Meadowbank and Sydney Olympic Park when completed and further promote cycling and walking throughout Western Sydney.”

“The NSW Government committed $3.9 million to the Baludarri Wetlands pathway which will allow more people to visit and enjoy the riverside, and Parramatta City Council was also involved in the project.”

Mr Lee said work on the NSW Government’s $4.1 million Escarpment Boardwalk is expected to commence in the first half of 2015, and will provide continuous foreshore access between the University of Western Sydney and Parramatta once completed.

“Access to the river foreshore will be more important to the city’s cultural and recreational life as the city continues to expand and a continuous foreshore pathway will strengthen links between the city’s employment, residential and education precincts” Mr Lee said.

Cr Scott Lloyd, Lord Mayor of Parramatta Council said work to create tunnels through the Lennox Bridge are well advanced with the Northern portal now open, providing a continuous path along the river foreshore.

“This about making the most of Parramatta’s unique waterfront location and opening up the waterfront as commuters travel through the city,” Mr Lloyd said.

“We know that cycling is becoming more popular, with over 390,000 bicycle journeys made in greater Sydney every day.”