New footpath to connect The Springs to Rail Trail

Published on 28 January 2026

Residents of The Springs in Nikenbah will soon have a safer way to walk and ride to the Mary to Bay Rail Trail, with a new shared footpath planned to improve everyday access and reduce safety risks along Madsen Road.

The new 2.5-metre-wide asphalt footpath will connect West Spring Way at The Springs to the Mary to Bay Rail Trail, creating a safer off-road link for pedestrians and cyclists.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Denis Chapman said the project responded directly to concerns raised by residents about safely accessing walking and cycling routes in the area.

“People told us very clearly that walking or riding along Madsen Road didn’t feel safe, particularly for families and less confident riders,” Cr Chapman said.

“The Mayor and I met with residents on site last year, and it was obvious there was a need for a safer connection that could be delivered now.”

Cr Chapman said a concept design for a full footpath along Madsen Road had already been developed, with the new connection providing an important safety improvement in the meantime.

“This gives residents a safe way to reach the rail trail without having to travel along a busy road, while longer-term works along Madsen Road are planned to tie in with future development,” he said.

“It’s about improving safety, encouraging active lifestyles and making sure growing communities like The Springs stay well connected.”

The $165,000 project is funded through Council’s amended 2025/26 capital works budget and has been designed to minimise environmental impacts, with the alignment weaving through existing vegetation and avoiding larger mature trees.

Construction is expected to begin in the final quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, with the footpath scheduled for completion by the end of June 2026.