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$1.3 million makes life safer for South Australian cyclists

$1.3 million to be spent this financial year improving bicycle networks in the city and regions.

In a massive win for thousands of South Australian cyclists, the Rann Government will spend $1.3 million this financial year improving bicycle networks in the city and regions.

Transport Minister Patrick Conlon said the money would be spent on 29 individual bike projects across the state and would help encourage more people to take the healthy option of riding to work or school.

"This Government has spent $105.9 million on cycling facilities since coming to office to ensure South Australia has safe and accessible places for cyclists of all ages and capabilities," Minister Conlon said.

"Since 2002 we have increased the length of Adelaide's bike paths and lanes by more than 60 percent.

"We will continue to work towards comprehensive and linked bicycle networks for Adelaide and regional centres and have installed a record number of bicycle lanes in recent years."

The latest funding - drawn from the State Black Spot Program and the State Bicycle Fund - will greatly expand the network of bicycle lanes and shared use paths while also providing for significant upgrades to facilities and for strategic planning, Minister Conlon said.

"All nominations were assessed according to their safety benefits, strategic benefits, and contribution to bicycle networks and value for money."

Funding was awarded to 15 metropolitan local council projects, 7 arterial road projects, and 7 regional local council projects, with new bike lanes in places such as Port Adelaide, Brighton, Glenelg Underdale and Port Augusta.

Other proposed projects to benefit cyclists include shared use paths in Whyalla, Balaklava Christies Beach, West Lakes, and Modbury, along with a bridge and shared use path link to the Adelaide Airport north path.

DTEI has a series of cycling and walking maps available making it easier for South Australians to plan safe walking and cycling routes to local shops, parks and services.