It was stressed yesterday how critical cycling is to our region's economy, with the 200,000 people who visit Whakarewarewa mountain bike park each year, Crankworx and the National Cycle Trail all cited as reasons we're becoming the "cycling capital" of New Zealand.
Most would agree we should be building on initiatives that bring tourism and money into our district. But whether a path through Western Heights, Koutu and Pukehangi will do that also remains to be seen.
The Cy-Way is more about the residents of Rotorua, so it will be interesting to see how those residents react.
One suspects there will be lovers and haters.
It's a lot of money, from both central and local government. Inevitably, some will say that money would be better spent elsewhere.
Cyclists and parents of cyclists will love it - no more close shaves with cars.
Most will be ambivalent. Although when they hear about plans to introduce slower driving speeds along the route, they might take a bit more notice. Like any plan, it has pros and cons. But it's hard to argue with the goal of making Rotorua safer and more accessible, and its residents healthier.
Time will tell.
