A new path lays ahead — literally.
On Wednesday 27 May 2026, works officially commenced on one of Port Douglas’s most significant active transport upgrades in recent years: the $2.5 million Principal Cycle Network Upgrade along Port Douglas Road.
Over the coming months and years, the existing narrow footpath will be transformed into a modern, wider shared pathway. The full project vision covers approximately 2.1 km, creating a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter users from near Lakeland Avenue toward the Old Port Road area. Right now, we’re focused on the critical first stage — and we’re delivering it with a strong emphasis on safety, clear communication, and keeping the community moving.
Why This Upgrade Matters for Port Douglas
Port Douglas thrives on its walkable, rideable lifestyle. With limited public transport options and high tourism activity, many locals and visitors already use this corridor daily. However, the current path has limitations in width, alignment, and separation from traffic.
The upgraded shared path will be wider (targeting 2.5–3 metres in key sections), better aligned, with improved sightlines and safer separation from vehicles. These changes are designed to reduce conflicts between users and encourage more people to choose the path instead of the road shoulder — directly improving safety for vulnerable road users.
As outlined on the Douglas Shire Council project page, the improvements will make the route wider, easier to use, and better aligned, with clearer sightlines and safer separation from traffic. This aligns with broader Queensland goals for active transport infrastructure that supports commuting, exercise, and enjoyment while reducing crash risk.
C&M Contracting was awarded the main contract following a competitive tender, recognised for both competitive pricing and relevant experience building cycling networks. More from Newsport.
Project Background & Funding
This upgrade forms part of the Principal Cycle Network and has been in planning for some time. It received support through the Australian Government’s Active Transport Fund and Roads to Recovery program, alongside Douglas Shire Council contributions. The contract was structured in separable portions to align with budget cycles across multiple financial years.
Preparatory works — including the removal of three trees (one oil palm and two poincianas) and roadside rocks at the Mirage Country Club roundabout, along with branch trimming — took place in mid-May 2026 to clear the way for construction. Main works then ramped up from 27 May.
Reference: Douglas Shire Council Pathway Upgrade Page • March 2026 Council Meeting Minutes
Where We Are Right Now: Site 1 (0 m to 90 m)
We are currently delivering Site 1 — the first 90 metres, starting directly south of Lakeland Avenue (approximately 20 m west of Port Douglas Road) and extending to the first pedestrian intersection.
Key elements of work in this opening section include:
Key Works
- Removal of existing footpath and one existing tree
- Construction of boulder retaining wall + weldmesh fence (first ~50 m)
- Installation of proposed 900 × 900 mm drainage inlet pit
- Full reconstruction of footpath to new wider standard
- Associated kerb & channel, drainage, and line marking
- Yellow line painting adjacent to new retaining wall
Service Relocations
- Relocation of water valves to suit new levels
- Adjustment of stormwater pit grates
- Relocation of recycled water main
Measurements for this section were taken on-site with a measuring wheel on 9 April 2026. Accurate traffic management starts with precise site knowledge.
We anticipate Site 1 will take roughly 2–3 weeks to complete, weather permitting. This section forms the very start of the broader first stage, which will eventually cover around 740 m toward the Reef Resort Villas area.
What’s Coming Next
While we progress through Site 1, here’s what lies immediately ahead within the current Traffic Management Plan coverage (approximately the first 362 m):
2 Site 2 (90 m to 175 m)
Removal of the old footpath, new full-width construction, temporary pedestrian path provision (with minor tree work if required), and adjustments to Telstra infrastructure, water valves, stormwater grates, and irrigation boxes.
3 Site 3 (175 m to 330 m)
Establishment of a temporary pedestrian route, old path removal, new full-width path with kerb & channel, drainage, tactile ground surface indicators, culvert extensions and headwalls, batter regrading, weldmesh fencing, permanent signage, gravel resheeting, line marking, and a new stormwater pit.
4 Site 4 (330 m to 395 m)
Works entering the Oaks Resort area, including old path removal, new construction over existing services, weldmesh fencing, and bollard installation at 1.5 m centres.
These four sites represent the initial focused stage. The overall project will continue in future portions, and we will release updated Traffic Management Plans and community information as we move forward.
Keeping Pedestrians Safe and Moving
A question we hear often is how people will continue using this popular route during works. Throughout the project, pedestrians and other footpath users will always have a safe, clearly signed alternative route nearby. We design and manage these detours to be intuitive and convenient. Our focus is on maintaining continuous access while protecting everyone on site.
“Pedestrian safety isn’t just a box we tick — it’s the foundation of every Traffic Management Plan we create. Our job is to make sure that even when the path is changing, people still have a clear, safe, and convenient way to get where they need to go.”
— Jesse Morris, Traffic Management Designer
“These upgrades will make a real difference for families, tourists, and locals who walk or cycle this route every day. A wider, better-designed shared path means fewer conflicts and a more enjoyable experience for everyone — but only if we manage the construction phase properly. That’s our responsibility.”
— Jesse Morris, Traffic Management Designer
No impact on general road users is expected during these early stages. We’ll coordinate any necessary traffic management only when works progress past The Oaks Resort in later phases.
Timeline, Community Impact & What to Expect
The project is deliberately staged across multiple years to balance delivery with community impact and funding cycles. Stage 1 construction (the current focus area) is targeted for completion around November 2026, with subsequent stages following in 2027.
In a town renowned for its relaxed coastal vibe, we understand that any construction brings temporary changes. Our team works hard to minimise disruption while delivering high-quality outcomes. As one local news report noted when the project was announced, the goal is to make it easier and safer for people to walk, ride, and move around Port Douglas.
In Port Douglas, where the toughest daily choice is often “beach or reef?”, a well-signed detour has quickly become the talk of the town. We’re confident the finished path will more than make up for the short-term inconvenience.
Take a Virtual Walk Through the Site
Want to see what the site looked like before we began? We captured a full 360° virtual tour right at the start of the project.
Take a virtual walk through the site before construction began • 360° Virtual Tour • Port Douglas Road
Project starting point — footpath upgrade works beginning just south of Lakeland Avenue at the Mirage Country Club entrance, Port Douglas.
On the Ground: Early Works in Action
Why This Project Matters
Safety First
A wider, properly designed shared path dramatically reduces conflict between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles — especially important on a busy tourist route.
Accessibility for All
New tactile indicators, smoother surfaces, and compliant grades mean everyone — from families with prams to mobility aid users — can enjoy the route.
Active Transport & Liveability
Encourages more locals and visitors to leave the car behind, supporting health, reducing congestion, and enhancing the relaxed tropical lifestyle Port Douglas is famous for.
Local Jobs & Capability
Delivering this project creates work for local crews, subcontractors, and supports the growth of capable Far North Queensland civil contractors.
Looking Ahead
Over the coming weeks you’ll see steady, visible progress on Site 1. We’ll then transition into Sites 2, 3, and 4, with regular updates shared here and through our channels.
This project is about creating lasting, safer infrastructure that supports how people actually move around Port Douglas — whether for daily errands, exercise, or showing visitors the best of the town.
More detailed information on the remaining sections of the route will be released as planning progresses. In the meantime, if you have questions about access or the works, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Thank you for your understanding while we build a better path forward together.
Jesse Morris
Traffic Management Designer
Supporting C&M Contracting on the Port Douglas Principal Cycle Network Upgrade
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