The University of Otago has yet to form a view about the feasibility of an alternative to the proposed Albany St cycleway in Dunedin.
A shared path alongside the Water of Leith was suggested by engineer Stephen Macknight and new councillor Russell Lund as an alternative route to Albany St and possibly less contentious, as more carparks could be retained.
University chief operating officer Stephen Willis said the university continued to support the council’s Albany Street Connection project.
"We see this project as a valuable opportunity to improve safety and accessibility for our students, staff, visitors and the wider community," he said.
"Should the Albany St proposal not proceed for any reason, we would of course need to consider alternative options.
"But at this stage, we have not formed a view on the feasibility or implications of this alternative."
The university’s existing policy did not permit cycling through the centre of the campus, but it was supportive of cycling around the perimeter, he said.
Cr Lund said the Leith cycleway option would not pass through the "campus proper", but it would use the university carpark next to the property services building in Albany St.
"This is a distance of around 50m," he said.
"There is even a set of bike parking racks at the entrance to the carpark."
Cr Lund said the Leith concept would provide a far better riding experience than Albany St and "we are confident it will be delivered at a lesser cost".
"We also believe it is not too late for either the council or the university to consider this option."
The pedestrian safety component of the Albany St project could be maintained while the alternative cycleway was pursued, he said.
Tenders for the Albany St works are due to close tomorrow.
However, property owners have expressed opposition, and the council has been told a legal challenge is being prepared.
