State executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo said this was part of the state’s Green Connectors project, which will see coastal parks built from Tanjung Tokong to Batu Maung. He expects the entire project to be completed in the next 10 years.
At a press conference at Gurney Drive here today, he said this was part of the state’s 200km “Cycling Lane Masterplan”, with 180km already in existence through green-painted lanes on existing roads.
He said a total of 18,000ha of land had been identified on the island to form part of the green network, which includes the creation of a 50km coastal park and 65km of “blue connectors” (cycling lanes) which cross near rivers or coastal areas.
He said two bicycle lanes were being built from Tesco Sri Tanjung Pinang to the Flamingo Hotel (2.5km in length) and another within the Free Industrial Zone (2.5km) which cost the council RM3.4 million.
Jagdeep said another 6km Ecodeck cycling lane would be built from the beachside near Flamingo Hotel in Tanjung Bungah to the Rasa Sayang Resort in Batu Ferringhi. It will cost RM40 million.
He said the Ecodeck system was a boardwalk-style cycling lane which would hug the coast with minimal impact to the seawalls. Currently, he said, cyclists had to share the narrow winding roads up to Batu Ferringhi.
Jagdeep said the Ecodeck would measure 3.5m in width, with a designated space of 2m for bicycles and 1.5m for pedestrians.
“Ultimately, those using the Ecodeck will be able to get the best view of Penang’s beautiful beaches and seas.”
The entire project will be coordinated by George Town Conservation and Development Corporation, a tripartite partnership between the Chief Minister Incorporated, Think City Sdn Bhd and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.
At present, Penang has a dedicated 12.5km cycling track on the east coast of the island from George Town in the north to the Queensbay area in the south