Cairns Regional Council will vote on a resolution today seeking the costing and evaluation of footpath options that connect the City to the Airport.

Division 5 Councillor for the CBD and inner suburbs, Richie Bates has put forward a notice of motion for Wednesday’s Council meeting seeking progress on an active transport solution for the Airport Avenue link.

Cr. Bates who has been vocal on the need for greater transport choices to the Airport says his general business motion is 'an important first stage in achieving a walkway that will provide safe, around the clock access for pedestrians'.

“Cairns Airport CEO Kevin Brown and Mayor Manning have been instrumental in bringing all the stakeholders together to seek a solution on this issue," Cr Bates said.

“They are to be commended for initiating the free Airport Shuttle Bus trial, and safety signage and line-marking in response to the communities concerns.

“However, Airport Avenue is a major arterial road and should have an adequate footpath or footpaths to meet this standard.

“Active transport infrastructure such as footpaths and cycle-ways are key elements of the road planning standards, we need to move with the times and embrace a diversity of travel options for people.

"More and more people are choosing to commute via walking, enjoying the healthy lifestyle and affordability that brings.

“A comprehensive transport strategy that caters for private, public and active modes is the key to moving people safely, efficiently and with lasting economic benefits.

“Given the significance of Cairns Airport as major infrastructure supporting the regional economy, it would be entirely appropriate for the state and federal governments to contribute to this project."