The Federal Government and Maribyrnong Council are providing $263,000 each for the new and updated bike paths as part of the Making Maribyrnong More Bikeable Pathway project.

A new 1.08-kilometre on-and-off road trail will be constructed along Rupert and Cross streets in West Footscray, linking Tottenham and West Footscray rail stations. The existing Maribyrnong River Trail will also be improved and bike parking and signage introduced across the municipality.

Gellibrand MP Nicola Roxon said the Federal Government was working to better connect the western suburbs, the plan being to link Footscray and Sunshine activity centres.

Bluestone Ward councillor Catherine Cumming said the measures would improve the health and fitness of residents and lower carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

Hector Burton, president of riders' group MazzaBUGS, said riders had made their own 'goat trail' between the rear of the houses on Rupert and Cross streets and the rail tracks.