1 July 2007: Smart State Capital = Gridlock

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RAIL Back On Track - Media Release 1 July 2007

Smart State Capital = Gridlock

RAIL ? Back On Track (http://backontrack.org)  a web based community organisation for the promotion of rail throughout Australia has called for a rapid expansion of the South East Queensland rail network.

Robert Dow said

?Brisbane is heading towards permanent gridlock. It is time to accelerate the expansion of our rail network.  Rail is the bulk people mover. Light rail, for example from West End to New Farm, Indooroopilly to Kenmore, Gold Coast, is also the sort of initiative that is sustainable and will reduce the demands on the roads.?

?The momentum for heavy rail expansion, belatedly under way now needs rapid acceleration. Citytrain needs more trains and crew.  The new trains on order are not enough.  If there was a 15 minute frequency on all lines off peak, 5 minute or less in peak, with bus and light rail feeding heavy rail stations, pressure would be eased on the roads.  Congestion taxes on cars entering the City area will only have a limited impact.? 

?What will endear changes in behaviour is making public transport accessible, punctual and affordable.  The ever escalating cost of fuel together with the pollution from road vehicles will also drive change. The TransLink smart card initiative does offer promise with a little constructive thought for reducing the cost of the public transport as further incentive for transport behaviour change. Reduce the fares by 50% when this is implemented.  This will save much public expenditure in the longer term.?

?Instead of looking where we have been, let?s look forward to where we can really go! A complete re-think of transport needs is required. Rail is the sustainable and environmentally friendly transport solution.?

Contact:

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RAIL Back On Track

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