A new walking shortcuts guide will give Chippendale and Redfern residents some inspiration to shake up their daily commute.
The City of Sydney initiative gives inner city residents an enjoyable way of getting to work, with walking-friendly routes that sidestep busy roads.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said many people didn’t realise how easy it was to walk from Redfern to Town Hall.
“Walking is the best way to get into the city from Chippendale and Redfern – with most journeys taking about half an hour. When you walk to work, you’re in control – there’s no unexpected delays,” the Lord Mayor said.
“We’re investing in infrastructure to make walking easier and more enjoyable – wider footpaths, greener streets, a wayfinding network with Braille signage on crossings and better lighting make walking or riding a bike a real option.”
People who walk to work report feeling less stressed and more productive during their working day.
Research shows walking to and from work just a few times a week can also save commuters hundreds of dollars every year.
Redfern resident, Kate Bambury, has been walking to work since moving to the area recently and loves the reliability of her commute.
“If I leave the house at 8.15am, I can stop for a coffee and still make my 9am meeting. And it means I’ve done 30 minutes exercise before I step into the office,” Ms Bambury said.
“The best part of walking is the fact that it always takes me the same time to walk.”
Simone Green, also a Redfern resident, loves the green spaces on her walk to work.
“Walking means I avoid the stress of traffic and public transport and get to enjoy the open space and serenity of Prince Alfred Park, Belmore Park and Hyde Park. I arrive at work in the city centre relaxed,” Ms Green said.
Locals can try out the shortcuts by joining a free organised commuter walk. As well as a great start to their morning, participants will receive a free coffee voucher.
Darlington to city centre: When: 8am, Wednesday 14 December and Thursday 22 December Where: Meet corner of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets
Redfern Station to city centre: When: 8am, Friday 16 December and Tuesday 20 December Where: Meet on Lawson Street, Redfern Station
Anyone interested in joining a led-walk can email walking@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or turn up on the day.
For a copy of the shortcuts guide or for more information visit walking.sydney
For media inquiries or images, contact Bridget Ahern on 0423 505 854 or email bahern@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Paul Mackay on 0423 182 647 or pmackay@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.