The recent Budget measures for transport in general were a positive step and we were particularly interested and pleased to see bicycle-commuting mentioned several times with some proactive out-of-the box thinking.

The two cycling superhighways from St Julian’s to Valletta and Mosta to the University are routes we are keenly watching. The former as a feeder for the gaming and software industries-rich Sliema-Gżira-Msida corridor, the latter for its wide catchment area for the University and Mater Dei Hospital.

For some time now, the Bicycling Advocacy Group has been promoting the idea of a national bicycle route. One of the most common questions the group is asked is how to get from one point on the island to another, safely and efficiently. Working out how to get from A to B on a bike, around Malta’s one-way streets designed to facilitate car parking, an endless maze of illogical and tiring ups-and-downs, is one of our and Transport Malta’s cycling and walking challenges.

Which local council will take the coveted national cycle route ‘1st’ place? Will it be San Ġwann or Msida’s Triq San Ġwann ta’ Għargħur? Perhaps Gżira’s Marina car park, Pietà’s Triq Qrejten past the Junior College or even Marsa’s quaint flower-lined Triq San Tumas that no driver will ever get to see?

Some short, some long, all vying for the top spot route, with the new contenders from Transport Malta, which stand to become premier bicycle routes in their own right.

It will also be interesting to see how Transport Malta planners build a safe cycling route through the new Lija roundabout layout and, more importantly, cater for Lija’s high ‘mesh’ value or how different routes come together. As opposed to lanes, bicycle routes are mostly wayfaring signage with the minimum investment.

The burning question now is: will local councils fight for the honour and who will call the national bike route number one their own? At the end of the day, whether the Budget measures or a national bike route, it is all about putting bicycle commuting on the map.