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Gold Coast Light Rail

Started by ozbob, February 25, 2008, 07:58:09 AM

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ozbob

This is perhaps why electric light rail may get the nod?


From Brisbane mX 16 July 2008 page 12

Buses stop as fuel rises

QuoteBuses stop as fuel rises

Soaring diesel prices have forced schools in the US to cut back on school buses.

School transport budgets have ballooned as diesel prices have shot up nearly 65 per cent in the past year.

In California, the Folsom-Corodova Unified School District cut all of its high-school routes.

"Fuel conservation methods have been exploited already. It's gotten to the point where hard choices have to be made," said Robin Leeds, spokeswoman for the National School Transportation Association.

:-w
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ozbob

#41
From Gold Coast Bulletin 18 July 2008  page 22

Green rail a viable choice
Big bucks to support route
QuoteGreen rail a viable choice Big bucks to support route

AN investment boom along the rapid transit route could trigger a 4000 per cent return on the $1.67 billion rapid transit route.

A new report from peak industry group Tourism and Transport Forum has revealed a strong return for the Gold Coast economy.

TTF national transport manager Stewart Prins said the economic case for a light rail project outweighed the merits of a bus system.

"Light rail projects in other cities around the world have been a catalyst for major investment," said Mr Prins.

"Portland (in the US state of Oregon) is enthusiastically laying new light rail tracks, decades after they were ripped up and replaced by buses.

"Since the construction of a $55 million metropolitan area express light rail system in Portland in the late 1970s, a further $3 billion has been invested in development projects along the light rail corridor.

"That's a 4000 per cent return on investment for the local community."

TTF has lobbied for light rail instead of the cheaper rapid bus system, which has been criticised for its inability to attract patrons.

"An iconic transport project on the Gold Coast would act as a beacon for development, while simultaneously taking pressure off congested local roads," he said.

Mr Prins said the State Government must avoid settling for second best.
"Buses are, and always will be, an important part of the transport mix on the Gold Coast," he said.

"However, the Gold Coast Rapid Transit route is ideal for a light rail project, with relatively high population densities and high traffic volumes.

"With rising fuel prices forcing up costs for buses, as well as motorists, light rail will become even more viable."
Mr Prins said light rail also had significant environmental benefits, as it was powered by electricity.

"Light rail has the potential to be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, if the State Government wants to go down that path," he said.

"For example, a new light rail system in Tenerife, Spain, is powered solely by wind energy from 10 wind turbines.

"The 12km track route accommodates 17 trams, each carrying 200 people.

"A similar system could easily be provided on the Gold Coast."
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ozbob


Tenerife Light Rail System, Canary Islands

Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, is well known as a popular holiday destination. Visitors in recent years will have been aware of a major construction project on the streets of the island capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Rail development authority Metropolitano de Tenerife was building the initial line of a new light rail system, Tranvia de Tenerife, the first in the Canaries archipelago.

An old-style streetcar operation between Santa Cruz and La Laguna had closed in 1951, and the only public transport in the region became buses, increasingly held up by congestion. As with many European cities, a growing population coupled with an ever-increasing number of private cars pointed to a need for a metro operation. Without a new mode of public transport, the Tenerife government expected gridlock on the city's roads by 2012.

More --> http://www.railway-technology.com/projects/tenerife-lightrail/

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ozbob

TriMet's MAX Light Rail

system connects Portland, Gresham, Beaverton, Hillsboro and the Portland Airport. Trains run every 5-15 minutes roughly between 4:30 a.m. and midnight.


More --> http://trimet.org/max/
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ozbob

#44
The loss of the rail corridors on the Gold Coast in the 1960s was an expensive transport disaster, as our present Minister for Transport Mr Mickel is fond of saying.

A failure to put in place a decent sustainable rapid transit system will be another ....

The failure to duplicate the main line to Robina from the outset leaves little confidence in our transport planners.  Let's hope they have learnt the lessons of history ...

:-c
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Skeetbris

QuoteThe failure to duplicate the main line to Robina from the outset leaves little confidence in our transport planners. 

    The same could also be said for the rail line to Cleveland, also ripped up but then replaced two decades later with single track beyond Lota(?)that was a stupid decision!

   
QuoteLet's hope they have learnt the lessons of history ...

    I rather doubt they have learnt from history or the disasterous transport planning lunacy that occurred during the 1960's. They haven't really learnt any lessons from Sydneys transport planning mistakes! The planners now have a job ahead of them to get real sustainable transport up and running in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The need for a high capacity, clean, reliable, comfortable system is the key! Perth trialled hydrogen powered buses and I think they still have them running, but to replace an entire bus fleet with greener options than imported oils & local gas would take a couple of decades as there are so many reasonably new buses on the Coast and in Brisbane.

Brisbane needs an integrated light and heavy rail system now.

ozbob

#46
Indeed Skeetbris, the failure to think ahead is a major worry.

The hydrogen bus trial finished in September 2007 as far as I am aware (--> http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/greentransport/19524.asp ) and was successful.

WA is showing the way in transport at the moment. The other states should take note.  The railway line to Mandurah is showing what can be done with a bit of vision.  The passenger loadings are much greater than predicted and it is an outstanding success.

Hydrogen is no doubt a future option. The necessary hydrogen infrastructure will take time to establish and you still have the problem of capacity and high fuel and technology costs with  hydrogen bus on the high demand lines.  Integrated high capacity light rail with hydrogen? fuel bus feeders makes sense in the longer term.  Another future option is hydrogen/electric hybrid vehicles, rail and road.  Subsidising the petrol costs is only delaying the further development and adoption of sustainable solutions.

The busways in Brisbane are good candidates for hydrogen? super buses, or if that technology is not forthcoming perhaps electric trolley buses.  The busways as they are are generally not suitable for light rail.

The light rail mentioned in the thread above in Tenerife Spain is powered by wind generation.  Very novel and sustainable.  The Gold Coast rapid transit will require multiple-unit trains with easy 800 pax capacity at times.  These can run rapidly and safely.

There are rumours around that bus rapid transit will win out.  I am not so sure, as looking at it from all points of view it will be cheaper in the long run to do light rail as the cost of crewing, maintaining and fuelling (oil fuels, gas or hydrogen) the necessary buses will go through the roof. 
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stephenk

#47
I like a good debate!

Quote from: jason on July 14, 2008, 23:52:48 PM
The current plans don't provide a fully segregated travel path, often sharing or crossing a vehicle roads

Whether it be a busway or light rail, I think that the right of way should be segregated as much as possible for faster journey times. This is where metro wins, but sadly Queensland Government arn't considering a metro option.

QuoteYour point regarding buses requiring a larger envelope has some truth, but failed to note the actual width of vehciles and overhead equipment. Also you note that busways require 4 lanes at stations, when trams only require 2. This brings me back to congestion down the line when trams ahead are at stations, following vehicles are held up as well. Under the same assumption then busways could only require 2 lanes as per trams, hence reducing construction costs as well could they not

Some BRT systems do just have 2 lanes in stations (one in each direction). To increase capacity they send buses in groups of 3 for example which all stop and board at the same time. However, if you operating buses as a train, then you might as well be running a train.

QuoteI don't see the problem with having a mechanical mechanism for aid for disabled access. Australian Standards  specify what is acceptable. If you want to draw straws one could argue that a mechanical ramp with no gap is better than the small gap between fixed platfrom and tram door

As I mentioned using a mechanical ramp for wheelchair access to a bus can result in dwell times of a couple of minutes (recently I observed it take 5 minutes on the INB!), compared to less than 30sec for light rail. This would cause even more of a problem if the busway was operated with no overtaking lanes in the station as per above. Also with light rail, wheelchairs can usually access the train via all sets of doors, as opposed to just one set of doors on the bus.

QuoteOf course LRT is a more comfortable and spacious ride the buses, but that goes back to my point about about requiring a larger envelope for tunnels, so does LRT have a larger envelope than buses now?

LRT can have a better internal layout than BRT with similar vehicle widths. Buses usually require a raised section at the back for the engine, which means that the bus on split level. 100% low floor LRT doesn't have this problem. Yes, the internal layout is restricted by the bogie placements, but buses also have layout restrictions due to their wheels. Due to the larger safety envelope required for BRT, then you can have narrower guideways for LRT for comparable vehicle width, or have much wider LRT vehicles with the same width guideway.

Due to LRT running on rails, the ride if much more comfortable on LRT than BRT.

QuoteOn the subject of iconic buses, depends who you talk to. A lot would argue that the American Yellow School buses are iconic.

My question was name a city well known for it's buses aside from London - that was not answered.

QuoteAre you comparing Coal from power station with CNG or desiel? Also have you taken into account the polution produced to provide 24hour electricity to a system wide tram network 24000V, compared to individual power supply as needed.

Yes, the source I used took that into account. LRT is a lower polluter than BRT per passenger km.

QuoteWith most of SE QLD power supply being sorced from Swan Bank, being situated so close to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, pollution from here will still end in the Gold Coast and Brisbane due to its proximity.

I've never noticed any pollution from Swanbank, yet I certainly notice a bus belching out it's diesel fumes at pedestrians!

QuoteAll in all, each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Public tranport will always play catch up as no govt is going to spend money on future provisions as its economically impossible, as money is always needed else where.

Many developed countries have installed transport systems which are reasonably easy to expand to higher capacity when required. Examples are the VAL systems in Europe, ART system in Kuala Lumpur, and DLR in London.

QuoteI personally love the idea of trams, and i am at the end of the year off for a working holiday to USA and Canada to study public transport system in New York, Washington DC, LA, Boston and Toronto.

Have fun! The USA isn't exactly a world leader in public transport, Japan and Europe are much more public transport orientated. However many cities in the USA have low population densities similar to Australian cities which makes planning for public transport harder.

QuoteMy major concern with with any fixed track system is the lack of flexibility. All it takes is once incident, either it be a police, power failure, signal failure or vehicle break down, and has the potential to bring partial or whole system to a stand still. This is often seen with Train Systems including QR. And when this occurs these vehicles are useless. At least with buses they can avoid accident spots, are individually powered and operated independantly to each other if required. And if trams are brought to a stop, are there going to be enough buses to replace in emergency operations?

This is a good point, and one of the reasons why I think an LRT system should be as segregated as possible as it will reduce the incidence of delays. MTR in Hong Kong are able to run their partially segregated light rail system with 99.9% availability and 99.9% punctuality, which doesn't make me too concerned!

Quote
trams are a visually more appealing vehicle, zero pollution at vehicle, but require constant overhead power supply. some people see this as visual pollution and are opposed to such wires

Bordeaux has a tram installed with power supply in a conduit below the street, however it was initially very unreliable. Energy storage systems are being developed for LRT and AGT (such as NeoVAL) which would not require power supply between stations. However, this technology is not quite ready yet for a new installtion such as the Gold Coast Rapid Transit. So for the time being wires it is!
Evening peak service to Enoggera* 2007 - 7tph
Evening peak service to Enoggera* 2010 - 4tph
* departures from Central between 16:30 and 17:30.

jason

Like wise mate

Love a good debate

;)

ozbob

From Courier Mail click here!

State Cabinet to look at Gold Coast rapid transit scheme

Quote
State Cabinet to look at Gold Coast rapid transit scheme
Article from: The Courier-Mail

Robert MacDonald

July 23, 2008 12:00am

STATE Cabinet is expected to consider the business case for the proposed $700 million-plus Gold Coast rapid transit scheme within the next few weeks.
Ministers will decide not only the final route of stage one of the project, from Helensvale to Broadbeach, but also the mode of transport; either light rail or a rapid bus system.

Cabinet will also settle on the best way to deliver the project, most likely by way of a public-private partnership.

Once the State Government, which has committed $600 million to the project, has settled on its preferences, the Gold Coast City Council, which is contributing $105 million, will then consider the final proposal, clearing the way for a public call for expressions of interest.

"I'm aware that the Government has been receiving a very positive reaction from the private sector," Gold Coast City Council planning committee chairman Ted Sheppard said.

"When it is all announced,  it will all move fairly quickly."

Cr Sheppard, who is also a member of the council taskforce working with the State Government and Translink on the rapid transit proposal, said  funds committed to date would be enough to let the project proceed.

"I think it's close enough that the Government can deliver up the rapid transit system to the Gold Coast," he said.

Cr Sheppard said he believed the business case would indicate that the project could turn a  profit, particularly if the second stage of the scheme, from Broadbeach to Burleigh was included in the calculations.

"And in that case, that would be an encouragement for the private sector to get on board," he said.

The first  study of a potential Gold Coast rapid transit proposal began in 2001 and was completed two years later at a cost of $1.3 million. It estimated the stage one cost of the scheme to Broadbeach at $300 million to $400 million, around the current expected figure. There followed a light rail feasibility study in 2004 and a year later, an evaluation of both light rail and rapid bus alternatives.

Studies predicted that without rapid transit, by 2016 public transport usage on the Gold Coast would be only 4.3 per cent of all journeys, but with rapid transit, it was projected to grow to 7 per cent by 2016.

The project is strongly supported by the Gold Coast Chambers of Commerce but has been opposed by the Southport Chamber of Commerce, which is concerned about the impact of the proposed route through the town centre.

Cr Sheppard said he believed these issues could be resolved.

"Southport still has reservations, but those reservations can be addressed," he said. "We're ready to get on with it."
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ozbob

To be checked but a report on ABC 612 that the Gold Coast Bulletin has an article declaring that LIGHT RAIL WINS.

I am heading into the city now, if anyone can confirm please post. I will try to get hold of the paper in town.

;D
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ozbob

#51
Yes!!  Yeeee haaa!!!!

Found it: From Gold Coast Bulletin click here!

TransLink favours light rail for Coast

Quote
TransLink favours light rail for Coast


July 24th, 2008

LIGHT rail, not buses, will be recommended by TransLink for the $1.67 billion Gold Coast rapid transit system.

Councillors who have seen the soon-to-be released business case for the system said light rail had proved to be superior in almost every respect.

However, there were questions over who would pay for the massive infrastructure project, with the state claiming the private sector might cover most of the cost.
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At the same time, it would require the council to ramp up its contribution from $100 million to $130 million.

City planning boss and light rail supporter Cr Ted Shepherd said he would support pumping more council money into the project.

"Light rail will be shown as the preferred option (in the business case)," he said last night. "It is able to achieve the projected capacity at an earlier date and has far better safety and comfort."

The finding is a blow to Mayor Ron Clarke, who supported buses over light rail, which he derided as rickety trams. He said the final business case would go to State Cabinet as early as next week and then be returned to the council, before returning to Cabinet for a final decision by late September.

"At this stage I remain against the light rail. I don't support the power lines and its inflexibility," said Cr Clarke.

"It is going to cost more. We already know that it will cost $100 million extra for the route from Griffith University to Broadbeach, but it seems to me that TransLink has recommended light rail."

He also has doubts about the involvement of the public sector in the form of a private-public partnership (PPP).

"The grand plan for a private system would cost us if it failed. We would wear the losses," he said.

Cr Shepherd was critical of the Mayor's pessimistic outlook. "When you look at Brisbane and you look at the attitude of their Mayor Campbell Newman, you see progress and you see a 'can do' attitude which doesn't seem to happen here on the Gold Coast," he said.

More details of the rapid transit system emerged during a Budget estimates hearing in Brisbane yesterday.

Queensland Transport Minister John Mickel used the hearings to take a thinly- veiled swipe at the Gold Coast City Council.

He said the project team had worked under 'difficult and trying circumstances'.

"This has been one of these projects where there has been, I think it is fair to say -- and I think The Gold Coast Bulletin quite rightly has picked up on this -- a bit of a stop-start from the Gold Coast City Council," he said.

He said he had waited until after the council elections to discuss the issue with the councillors but was then asked by Cr Clarke to hold off until the end of May.

"I took that time as well to meet with the chambers of commerce," he said.

"I praised the rapid transit team before but I also want to praise the leadership shown in recent times by a number of leading Gold Coast identities, some of whom will not want me to name them.

"I will just simply say that I think the combined chambers of commerce on the Gold Coast have shown outstanding leadership."

The Government had committed $901 million to the project in last year's Budget capital statement but that suddenly dropped to $84 million this year.

Once the business case is released, the Government will start buying up properties on the proposed route.

The State Government has committed $50.7 million to the project this year so the project team can continue the detailed planning work.

Queensland Transport director-general David Stewart told the hearing TransLink was getting very close to finalising its business case for the project.

"There are a couple of things that we need to finalise and we will be back to Government very shortly," he said.

"One is obviously choosing the mode -- whether it is ... rail or bus.

"The other thing we are doing with the business case -- and you can appreciate the success we have had on recent transactions such as Airport Link -- is that we see this as a great public-private partnership opportunity.

"What we are trying to do in that business case is to really understand what the likely contribution of Government, if there is one, will be to this project."

He said the rapid transit system could easily be delivered as a PPP and the Government, if it contributed, would not have to pay anything until the 'back end' of the project cycle.

"Once the Government considers the business case, we will get out there and start hardship acquisitions," he said. "Importantly, the other discussion we are having is with the Gold Coast City Council on their likely contribution to the project."
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Tramwayjohn

I am very much in favor of light rail for the Gold Coast. However, with so many people including Mayor Clark being "Pro-bus" I will believe it when I see it, if light rail is going to be built! Still, fuel costs are such that electric light rail would now seem the best option. It should also be possible to build lines directly into existing heavy rail stations. The Roma Street busway platforms are a fine example of co-ordinating transport.

John Coyle

#Metro


This is good news. I this week I have been to Adelaide and Sydney.
Adelaide's tram system to Glenelg is fantastic.

*High capacity services every 7 minutes (weekday)
*Free transport for anyone between North and South Terraces (ie: Whole of CBD)
and also free in Glenelg.
* High Speed- the service enters a private reservation and then runs fast like a train would.
* Looks good- single wire attached to a post. Very simple and neat.
* The service was capable of climbing up steep overpasses. Sydney's system does the same.

Platforms set at two heights (like at Roma Street) would mean that both heavy rail and
light rail could run on the same tracks. Alternatively, the light rail tracks could be set in the busway,
which would mean no interaction with trains at passenger stations.
Negative people... have a problem for every solution. Posts are commentary and are not necessarily endorsed by RAIL Back on Track or its members.

mrciclismo

I hope we are not "counting our chickens before they hatch" but it seems like good news indeed.  As a long time supporter of light rail, I am glad to see that Translink is making the right decision and not a politically expedient one.

Maybe the capital of the Sunshine can move in this direction as well??  I live in hope........

ozbob

This is a great and sensible outcome.  I believe it signals a major turning point in the provision of sustainable public transport solutions for the long haul, not only in south-east Queensland but throughout Australia.

There is a reasonable claim I believe for part funding of the GC rapid transit from the Infrastructure Australia fund. 

The GC is Australia's premier holiday destination and has an exploding population base as well.  RAIL Back On Track supports additional federal funding to drive this project to rapid completion. 

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Dean Quick

#56
   This is great news! I think light rail has a big future in our cities. Lets just hope that it is constructed and the bean counters don't spoil the final plan/design.

Skeetbris

QuotePosted by: mrciclismo  Maybe the capital of the Sunshine can move in this direction as well??  I live in hope........

     Don't expect to see it any time soon as the Capital gets a second rate system that is imploding and will only become harder to run with diesel and gas prices high. Despite the slight relief we are currently seeing at the bowser, come the Northern Hemisphere winter oil prices will again surge to record levels.
Brisbane needs an integrated light and heavy rail system now.

jason

I'm still yet to be convinced that Light Rail is going to be economically sustainable.

People here keep saying that its "sustainable", but only focusing on one part that of this. I interested on how people forget about economic sustainability here.

ozbob

From Gold Coast Bulletin click here!

Transit system report to see city light

QuoteTransit system report to see city light

Geoff Chambers

August 19th, 2008

COUNCIL heavyweights are set to get their first glimpse of the controversial $1.67 billion rapid transit business case.

After weeks of TransLink and State Government delays and dithering, the business case will be delivered to councillors this week.

Council CEO Dale Dickson yesterday confirmed councillors would be able to view the business case under the guidance of transport officers.

"I have confirmed that it should be ready for Thursday and Friday this week and then further discussed at next Monday's council meeting," said Mr Dickson.

Councillors will be able to engage TransLink officers in a 'question and answer' session following the meeting.

Mr Dickson said council's determination to finalise its decision on the future of the rapid transit system on September 4 remained on track.

Councillors have flagged their intent to increase council's funding commitment above $130 million after massive blow-outs with the transport system, which will run from Helensvale to Broadbeach.

The business case will also address future plans to extend the system to Coolangatta along the Gold Coast Highway.

Council will make its final recommendations to the State Government early next month and Transport Minister John Mickel is expected to announce the final decision by December.

A preliminary business case presented by TransLink to councillors last month revealed the more expensive light rail was preferred ahead of a rapid bus system.

The report shows light rail has a longer life and better capacity to handle growth.

Cr Clarke has spoken out against light rail but council is expected to endorse the more expensive option.

Councillors have asked for a detailed transport breakdown and will spend the weekend reading the massive document.

The public is not expected to be shown any details of the business case until the report has been assessed.
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ozbob

Gold Coast Rapid Transit will be light rail.

Details to follow.  Announcements to be made shortly.

YES!!!!!!

Great day for Australia!!

:D
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#61
From Gold Coast Bulletin click here!

Trams just the ticket, says minister

QuoteTrams just the ticket, says minister
Sue Lappeman

August 22nd, 2008

LIGHT rail is on track to be servicing the Gold Coast within five years, with the
preliminary business case recommending the controversial system as a
solution to the city's traffic woes.

The State Government's worst-kept secret about the preferred option for the
$1.67 billion Gold Coast rapid transit system was confirmed exclusively to The
Gold Coast Bulletin yesterday and will be officially announced this morning.

With the Gold Coast City Council already indicating it will support the light rail
option, the Government is preparing to call on private companies interested in
entering into a public-private partnership with the Government to build and run
the rapid transit service.

The business case was given to the councillors yesterday but will not be
publicly released for another couple of months because it contains
commercially sensitive information that the private sector companies will use
to put together their bids.

But Transport Minister John Mickel said light rail had been found to offer
greater capacity, reliability and a longer lifespan than buses to cope with
future growth.

The preliminary business case also confirmed it could be delivered in stages,
with Griffith University to Broadbeach being the top priority.

"This is truly an international solution for an international city that enhances
the Gold Coast's reputation as a tourism and lifestyle destination," said Mr
Mickel.

"The project has moved a step closer to construction and delivering a public
transport solution that the Gold Coast deserves."

But the project still needed to pass several more tests.

"First and foremost, we are looking to the Gold Coast City Council delivering
on its strong support to date," said Mr Mickel.

"Our partners, the city councillors, have already had the opportunity to view
the preliminary business case and this enables council to make an informed
decision on the project."

Mr Mickel said the next test for the feasibility of the project to move it from
concept to reality was to embark on 'market sounding', which would begin in
October.

"What this means is we will start discussions with private sector construction
companies to determine their willingness to partner with the State Government
and Gold Coast City Council on the project," he said.

"Up until now, the private sector could not realistically begin planning their bids
but with the certainty of the business case these companies can now get to
work designing their bids."

Further work was also needed on a corridor planning study, with
construction estimated to start in 2010 and to take three years.

This would involve releasing the planning study to the community in October,
with the community able to have its say in October and November.

The input would help refine the design.

"The Gold Coast is a beautiful city and we want to keep it that way," he said.

"The community can help us with having a say on traffic, parking and the
locations of stations."

Mr Mickel said once the State Government had this information it could make a
decision in the first half of 2009.

"Doing nothing is simply not an option," he said.

"Traffic on the city's main roads is estimated to be increasing by an average
of 4.3 per cent each year.

"Currently only 4 per cent, or 65,000 trips, are made by the Coast community
on public transport, and with rapid transit it is projected to grow to 10 per cent
by 2026.

"By making public transport faster, more efficient and more reliable, this
project is estimated to take up to 40,000 car trips off the roads -- that will
have a significant effect on future congestion and avoiding gridlock."

The State Government's 10-year network plan for the Gold Coast also
includes an increase in funding for bus services from $1 million in 2004 to $16
million this year; more bus services travelling from the west on bus priority
lanes and bus priority lanes worth $12 million which are currently being
constructed in Frank Street, Smith Street and the Gold Coast Highway
between Broadbeach and Miami.

The Go card was also launched on the Gold Coast in July, marking the
beginning of cashless, quick and convenient ticketing for commuters, said Mr
Mickel.

"The rapid transit project is a key element of the Queensland Government's
plan to address congestion on the Coast," he said.

"It is just one part of a larger, integrated approach we are bringing to the Gold
Coast."

Mayor Ron Clarke has spoken out against light rail but the council is expected
to endorse it.

Councillors are due to meet with TransLink staffers on Monday for a question
and answer session after viewing the document.

They will make their final decision on the project at a special meeting on
September 4.

They have already flagged their intent to increase the council's funding
commitment above $130 million after massive blow-outs with the transport
system.
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ozbob

Just listened to Minister Mickel on 612 outlining that light rail is to be the mode for the Gold Coast rapid transit system.

Comment forwarded to 612 ABC Brisbane.

QuoteComment:

Congratulations to the Gold Coast, Queensland and Australia!

Modern light rail will become an iconic feature of Australia's premier holiday destination.
Sustainable, environmentally friendly, high capacity, safe, it is clearly the optimum mass transit solution for the Gold Coast.

Bus, and bus rapid transit has its role to play in the public transport mix, but clearly in this situation modern light rail is the optimum solution.

Look forward to using our go cards on the new light rail rapid transit system on the coast!!
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ozbob

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
22/08/2008

LIGHT RAIL THE FRONTRUNNER TO KEEP GOLD COAST MOVING

Transport Minister John Mickel has today revealed the preliminary business case for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit is recommending light rail as the solution to keep the city moving into the future.

Light rail has been found to offer greater capacity, reliability, and a longer lifespan than buses to cope with future growth. The preliminary business case has confirmed it can be delivered in stages, with Griffith University to Broadbeach being the top priority.

Mr Mickel has welcomed the preliminary business case and said: " This is truly an international solution for an international city that enhances the Gold Coast's reputation as a tourism and lifestyle destination".

"The project has moved a step closer to construction and delivering a public transport solution that the Gold Coast deserves," he said.

Mr Mickel said for the project to move forward it needed to pass several more tests.

"First and foremost we are looking to the Gold Coast City Council delivering on its strong support to date.

"Our partners, the City Councillors have already had the opportunity to view the preliminary business case and this enables Council to make an informed decision on the project."

Mr Mickel said the next test for the feasibility of the project to move it from concept to reality is to embark on 'market sounding' which will commence in October.

"What this means is we will start discussions with private sector construction companies to determine their willingness to partner with the State Government and Gold Coast City Council on the project," he said.

"Up until now, the private sector could not realistically begin planning their bids but with the certainty of the business case these companies can now get to work designing their bids."

Further work is also needed on a corridor planning study, with construction estimated to commence in 2010. This process involves releasing the planning s tudy to the community in October, with the community able to have their say in October and November. This valuable input will help refine the design.

"The Gold Coast is a beautiful city and we want to keep it that way. The community can help us with having a say on traffic, parking and the locations of stations," Mr Mickel said.

Mr Mickel said once the State Government has this information it could make a decision in the first half of 2009.

"Doing nothing is simply not an option," he said.

"Traffic on the city's main roads is estimated to be increasing by an average of 4.3% each year.

"Currently only 4%, or 65,000 trips, are made by the Coast community on public transport, and with rapid transit it is projected to grow to 10% by 2026.

"By making public transport faster, more efficient and more reliable, this project is estimated to take up to 40,000 car trips off the roads - that will have a significant effect on future congest ion and avoiding gridlock."

The Gold Coast Rapid Transit project goes hand in hand with the State Government's Ten Year Network Plan for the Gold Coast.

Features of the network plan include :

? Increase in funding for bus services from $1 million in 2004 to $16 million in 2008

? More bus services travelling from the west on bus priority lanes

? Bus priority lanes worth $12 million are currently being constructed in Frank Street, Smith Street and the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Miami

? Go card was launched on the Gold Coast in July, marking the beginning of cashless, quick and convenient ticketing for commuters.

"The rapid transit project is a key element of the Queensland Government's plan to address congestion on the Coast," Mr Mickel said.

"It is just one part of a larger, integrated approach we are bringing to the Gold Coast."


Thursday 22 August 2008

==============================================================
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ozbob

From Brisbanetimes click here!

Gold Coast to get light rail system

QuoteGold Coast to get light rail system
Christine Kellett | August 22, 2008 - 7:56AM

Trams could run from Helensvale to Coolangatta on the Gold Coast under a plan announced by the State Government today.

Transport Minister John Mickel said light rail was the most likely option to bust crippling congestion on the glitter strip, where 20 per cent of all residents will live within 800 metres of the proposed line.

It will stretch from Helensvale, Harbour town, the "knowledge precinct" of Griffith University and new Gold Coast Hospital site, Southport, Surfers paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads and on to Coolangatta.

The Minister said the project would be built through a three-way partnership between the government, Gold Coast City Council and a private sector partner, which is yet to be found.

"Our partners, the City Councillors have already had the opportunity to view the preliminary business case and this enables council to make an informed decision on the project," Mr Mickel said this morning.

"What this means is we will start discussions with private sector construction companies to determine their willingness to partner with the State Government and Gold Coast City Council on the project.

"Up until now, the private sector could not realistically begin planning their bids but with the certainty of the business case these companies can now get to work designing their bids."

Mr Mickel said the proposal provided the best option to combat congestion on the Gold Coast, where traffic was increasing by 4.3 per cent each year.

"Currently only 4 per cent, or 65,000 trips, are made by the Coast community on public transport, and with rapid transit it is projected to grow to 10 per cent by 2026.

"By making public transport faster, more efficient and more reliable, this project is estimated to take up to 40,000 car trips off the roads - that will have a significant effect o

He said early indications were that private companies were keen to "get on board".

"This is truly an international solution for an international city that enhances the Gold Coast's reputation as a tourism and lifestyle destination".

The first stage of construction is expected to begin by 2010.
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Arnz

Quote from: ozbob on August 22, 2008, 07:03:19 AM
Gold Coast Rapid Transit will be light rail.

Details to follow.  Announcements to be made shortly.

YES!!!!!!

Great day for Australia!!

:D

Not suprisingly, the Gold Coast mayor is proposing silly alternatives such as tunnels or even super-buses.  He's been on record as being anti-light rail in the past.
Rgds,
Arnz

Unless stated otherwise, Opinions stated in my posts are those of my own view only.

Dean Quick

Finally, some common sense prevails!!

Lets just hope that it is carried through and not just hollow promises..........




ozbob

Media Release 22 August 2008

SEQ:  Light rail the sustainable solution for the Gold Coast ? A Building Australia Fund project?

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has congratulated the Queensland Government, Queensland Transport, and the TransLink Transit Authority on the announcement today by Transport Minister Mickel that the preliminary business case for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit is recommending light rail as the solution to keep the city moving into the future.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

?Today is a very significant day in public transport.  The announcement that light rail is the preferred solution for the Gold Coast rapid transit is one of vision.?

?RAIL Back On Track has consistently put forward light rail as the most appropriate sustainable and capable solution for the Gold Coast rapid transit.?

?We call on the Federal Government to consider funding the Gold Coast rapid transit project from the Building Australia Fund.  On the 13th May 2008 the Hon Anthony Albanese MP Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government said in a statement that in part the Building Australia fund (1) would be used to improve the functioning of and quality of life within our major cities and major regional centres (2).?

?Modern light rail will become an iconic feature of Australia's premier holiday destination. Sustainable, environmentally friendly, high capacity, safe. It is clearly the optimum mass transit solution for the Gold Coast.  It is the type of project that the Building Australia fund should support.?

References:

1.  http://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/

2.  http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2008/May/budget-infra_15-2008.htm

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
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ozbob

Clearly, the study has determined the optimum outcome.
I don't think the Mayor understands what modern light rail is ...

Good to see Ron still plugging away ...

From Brisbanetimes click here!

Trams 'would worsen traffic woes'


QuoteTrams 'would worsen traffic woes'
Marissa Calligeros | August 22, 2008 - 1:29PM

The State Government's proposed tram line would worsen crippling congestion on Queensland's glitter strip, Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke believes.

"We need to remember that this is in no way the be all and end all," Mr Clarke told brisbanetimes.com.au.

Trams could run from Helensvale to Coolangatta on the Gold Coast under a plan announced by the State Government today.

Transport Minister John Mickel said light rail was the most likely option to combat congestion in and around the tourism hub, where 20 per cent of all residents will live within 800 metres of the proposed line.

But Mr Clark, who lived in Australia's tram capital, Melbourne, said the proposed tram line would further choke traffic along the coast.

"Our roads weren't designed to accommodate trams...If we occupy say two to three lanes with a tram, where is there space for commuters who will invariably still use cars," Mr Clarke said.

The proposed line will stretch from Helensvale, Harbour town, the "knowledge precinct" of Griffith University and new Gold Coast University Hospital site, Southport, Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads and on to Coolangatta.

Traffic would be siphoned along Bundall Road in Surfers Paradise should the tram line eventuate, causing further delays for Brisbane-bound commuters, Mr Clarke said.

The Mayor said the tram system needed to be integrated with an extended bus service.

"The Gold Coast needs a public transport system that actually meets the needs of a community that is sprawled across 425 square metres of the length of the coast," he said.

"People will not abandon the convenience of their car unless they can access efficient public transport within walking distance of their front gate."

However, Mr Mickel said the proposal provided the best option to cut congestion on the Gold Coast, where traffic was increasing by 4.3 per cent each year.

"Currently only 4 per cent, or 65,000 trips, are made by the Coast community on public transport, and with rapid transit it is projected to grow to 10 per cent by 2026," Mr Mickel said.

"By making public transport faster, more efficient and more reliable, this project is estimated to take up to 40,000 car trips off the roads - that will have a significant effect on future congestion and avoiding gridlock."

The first stage of construction is expected to begin by 2010.
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ozbob

From ABC News click here!

Council urged to extend Gold Coast light rail


QuoteCouncil urged to extend Gold Coast light rail

The head of the Gold Coast Council's planning committee wants the first stage of the city's proposed light rail system to run from Griffith University at Parklands to Burleigh Heads.

Councillor Ted Shepherd says the TransLink business plan has the initial rail line terminating at Broadbeach, but he wants the system extended.

"I think council has to bite the bullet on this," he said.

"If we can get the Cabinet or the State Government to agree to putting in the extra funding I believe council should also do that.

"Just imagine the system going all of the way to Burleigh Heads, it frees up all of those buses then to run east, west, which then improves these service to Reedy Creek, Mudgeeraba and Nerang."

Councillors met TransLink yesterday to raise their concerns about the project.

Their suggestions will be taken to Cabinet.
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ozbob

#70
Gold Coast Rapid Transit is heading your way

The Queensland Government and the Gold Coast City Council are working together to build a light rail rapid transit system between Helensvale and Coolangatta.

    * Stage one - Helensvale to Broadbeach
    * Stage two - Broadbeach to Coolangatta

Check out the TransLink site here!


light rail vehicle in Surfers Paradise (southbound)

http://www.translink.com.au/qt/transLin.nsf/files/gcrt_lightrail.gif/$file/gcrt_lightrail.gif
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ozbob

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O_128

cool it will be easier to get to the beach from helensvale
"Where else but Queensland?"

SteelPan

I suppose it's a positive - mind you, I'll believe it, when my backside hits the seat of the "TRAMS".
My only question - what's really going to be "rapid" about it??  Soon as it hits GC Traffic, that's it! bumper-to-bumper all the way..... ::)
SEQ, where our only "fast-track" is in becoming the rail embarrassment of Australia!   :frs:

ozbob

Despite the illustrations the Light Rail will have its own right of way.  Relative to the GC traffic it will be supersonic .....

;D
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ButFli

I have to say I am disappointed by the overhead wiring depicted. Surely the GC could learn from the mistakes of Melbourne and use an under-vehicle electricity supply. Overhead systems are ugly and will obscure the iconic Gold Coast skyline. Although I have say, building an under utilised eyesore is "VeryGC".

haakon

Third rail power systems are not a good idea for trams.
People are more likely to be electocuted by them and they run at a much lower voltage which reduces performance.

SteelPan

Thanks Ozbob, right of way is very good news.... :-t
SEQ, where our only "fast-track" is in becoming the rail embarrassment of Australia!   :frs:

ozbob

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
17/02/2009

National Party Withdraw Support for Gold Coast Rapid Transit

Minister for Transport, John Mickel has this morning expressed his disappointment that the National Party have withdrawn their support for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit.

"I am deeply concerned to hear that the National Party has pulled the plug on support for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit project," Mr Mickel said.

"This is a betrayal of the people of the Gold Coast. It is a stab in the heart for the public transport needs of the Gold Coast and for those set to benefit from the thousands of jobs this project will create.

"It is also stab in the back for those people who have been working so hard towards getting this project off the ground.

"The project is on the runway, building speed for take-off - and now suddenly, the National Party announce they want to shut down the engines.

"There is now a very clear difference between where the Government and the Opposition stand on the project. The Government supports it 100 per cent. The Opposition is backtracking and back-pedalling and withdrawing its support.

"This is precisely what we don't need right at this point in the project's delivery when we are trying to attract investor support. We can do without this doubt and equivocation that the National Party has injected.

"Just to complicate the issue further, the Opposition is split and divided - The Member for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek is supporting it, and the party's shadow minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Fiona Simpson, pulling the rug from under it while the party's Southport candidate Tania Wright is reportedly calling the shots on what strategy the National Party is pursuing.

"The real question is: where is the Opposition Leader Mr Springborg on this issue?"Mr Mickel said.

The Gold Coast Rapid Transit project continues to progress with the project business case is likely to be finalised for submission to government in the next few months.

The project was recently listed as a top ten priority project in the Queensland Government's submission for funding from the Infrastructure Australia Building Australia fund.

Mr Mickel said the Gold Coast Rapid Transit project will deliver a number of significant benefits to the local community.

"This project will create close to 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during construction," Mr Mickel said.

"It will support the city's biggest industries including the tourism, construction and retail sectors while also supporting key emerging industries including the health, education, marine and sporting sectors.

"It is expected to take up to 40,000 cars a day off the congested coastal strip by 2016.

"The project will bring economic benefits to the community exceeding $1.3 billion so why have the National Party withdrawn their support?" Mr Mickel said.
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dwb

Despite any spin, Bob what do you think of this???

🡱 🡳