Bus reform - our proposal media releases grouped

[ozbob]

Media release 5th November 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: RAIL Back on Track Launches New Bus Network Proposal

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers launches its new Hi Frequency Bus network proposal for Brisbane.

RAIL Back on Track New Bus Network Launch

A service quality map of Brisbane City Council's Bus services:
>> http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

A service quality map of RAIL Back on Track's Hi Frequency Bus Network proposal
>> http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Survey Form
>> http://goo.gl/forms/p0TSHaR9vG

RAIL Back on Track Facebook Page
>> https://www.facebook.com/RAILBackOnTrack

Screenshot instructions to download the map as .kml for those wishing to download and view the file on their home computer
>> http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/KMLbus.png

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Today we are calling on the public to help us be part of something big. We've noticed that over in New Zealand, Auckland's mayor is out reforming his bus network while our own Lord Mayor was cutting bus services. As Brisbane and Auckland have been sister cities since 1988, our volunteer members have put together a new bus network based on what our New Zealand cousins are doing and we are now inviting the public to participate.

"Residents can now compare BCC's Bus Network and our new Hi Frequency Bus Network proposal. Featuring interactive mapping and aerial photography, residents can zoom in on their house, their suburb, their workplace and compare the quality of BCC's bus service in their area with our Hi Frequency Bus Network proposal. They can see how strong or weak the bus network is in their area, its overall quality and how it fits into the wider bus network.  People with Google Earth may also download the maps and see individual routes. Tell your friends, family, work colleagues to go to our website https://www.facebook.com/RAILBackOnTrack and fill in our survey or use the direct survey link here http://goo.gl/forms/p0TSHaR9vG

"Residents of Centenary, Albany Creek, Yeronga, Bulimba and Ashgrove would be major winners from bus reform. However, the money for these upgrades is currently locked up because our Lord Mayor insists on driving all buses all to the CBD with many duplicating each other, meaning no money is available to upgrade bus service in these suburbs. We are asking the public to think about their willingness to have some people on the network connect, with a short wait at a civilised facility, if this is the key to massively expanding Brisbane's public transport network without increasing fares.

"Under bus reform passengers will see greater liberty and freedom to go where they want, when they want on a bus that is always coming soon, and have a more equitable distribution of high quality bus services across the entire city.

"Under bus reform, a new 400 CentenaryGlider would connect to all day express trains at Darra station, run through Mt Ommaney, Indooroopilly and along Coronation Drive to the CBD, every 10 minutes all day. You'd be able to use this bus to go shopping, go to work, study, dining out, having a night out in the Valley and more because it connects to everything. It's the closest thing to Light Rail without actually laying the track. Under bus reform, Bulimba's bus services would be massively upgraded with a BulimbaGlider created from amalgamating the existing half hourly 230 and 235 routes into a single bus line coming every 15 minutes all day going to the CBD and also connecting to trains at Morningside. The great thing about this bus reform is that it recycles existing resources so there is a lid kept on fares.

"In Ashgrove, route 380 The Gap would be upgraded to high frequency. A direct bus to the University of Queensland at St Lucia through Ashgrove coming every 15 minutes would also connect with Toowong, Bardon, Ashgrove, Enoggera, the Ferny Grove Rail Line and Brookside Shopping Centre. There is massive student demand in this area, and residents of Ashgrove, Ferny Grove and The Gap would no longer have to travel into the CBD and then out again to get the The University of Queensland.

"To help change along, where appropriate, the new service should run alongside the old for a limited period while passengers 'try before they buy', along with local consultation. This would enable people to actually experience the difference and give informed feedback rather than be asked to accept something that they've never seen or tried before.

"Our New Zealand cousins have set a high standard of public performance when it comes to tough choices and bus reform. The Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council should step up and show that they're capable of doing the same thing. We submit this proposal to TransLink and the Queensland Government as feedback for every single bus service in the entire city of Brisbane, and we formally request a TransLink feedback reference number."

References:

1. Bus Reform: Auckland City Council versus Brisbane City Council
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11016.0

2. "Transferring" can be good for you, and good for your city
http://www.humantransit.org/2009/04/why-transferring-is-good-for-you-and-good-for-your-city.html

3. Auckland: how network redesign can transform a city's possibilities
http://www.humantransit.org/2012/10/auckland-how-network-redesign-can-transform-a-citys-possibilities.html

4. Brisbane's Sister City - Auckland
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/governance-strategy/economic-development/international-relations-program/list-sister-cities/brisbanes-sister-city-auckland

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Key Features of RAIL Back on Track's Hi Quality Bus Network proposal

New 900-series CITYCONNECTOR buses dedicated to cross-town travel. There are thirteen CITYCONNECTOR routes modelled on Melbourne's Orbital SmartBus services. http://ptv.vic.gov.au/projects/buses/smartbus/

Bus Rapid Transit Superbuses capable of carrying 150 passengers per vehicle placed on high volume corridors such as 412 St Lucia via Coronation Drive, 333 Chermside via Northern Busway, 222 Carindale Heights via Old Cleveland Road, and a new hi-frequency 400 CentenaryGlider. This is the closest thing to light rail without actually laying down tracks or putting up wires.

Simpler, easier to understand and intuitive bus network with fewer bus route numbers to remember, fewer timetables to rummage through and with buses connecting to trains and other buses. The number of bus routes is a measure of service complexity and dilution of bus service quality; frequency needs to be concentrated in a few bus routes for services to always be coming soon.

Improved Rail Services. Trains to Springfield would run every 15-minutes all day, permitting Ipswich trains to run express, all day every day. This saves 8 minutes of travel time between Ipswich-Brisbane CBD and it means a bus interchange can be built at Indooroopilly Rail station allowing residents to bypass Coronation Drive congestion. Express trains take just 8 minutes to travel between Indooroopilly Rail Station and Roma Street Station, avoiding Coronation Drive congestion and unreliability. In contrast, BUZ 444 departing Indooroopilly Shopping Centre takes 17 minutes for the same journey and can get caught in congestion. Kippa Ring line opening will see 15 minute all day trains as far as Petrie and frequent train service would be extended by one station to Murrarie on the Cleveland Line to connect with CITYCONNECTOR buses.

More Buses More Often. New all-day Hi-Frequency bus services would be extended into Albany Creek (359 to Mitchelton Station), The Centenary Suburbs (400 CentenaryGlider via Coronation Drive), Bulimba (230 BulimbaGlider via Riding and Thynne Rd), Ashgrove (380 The Gap) and Yeronga (196 Yeronga). Service upgrades by 'topping up' existing near-frequent service to Stafford (375 Stafford City), Toombul (300 Toombul) and Logan Road (175 Garden City).

Limited Interchange at Key Interchange Points (KIPs). These locations would receive distinctive stops and upgraded signage. Most people will experience no need to connect and will not have to do anything as their bus will continue to transit straight through these KIPs on an unbroken journey to the CBD. Generally, passengers on services originating north of Chermside, East of Carindale and West of Indooroopilly may be asked to change. As space for CBD buses is very scarce, services that carry low volumes of passengers into the Brisbane CBD may also be asked to change. Extended service to new parts of the city is mathematically not possible without this change to the network.

Uses existing resources more efficiently by recycling wasteful and inefficient bus routing in the current BCC bus network, keeping a lid on fares while growing patronage and fare revenue.

Proposal does not depend on BaT, new busways, new rail lines or the construction of major and expensive infrastructure. As a planning reform it may be implemented rapidly within 12-48 months. Of course this depends on co-operation,  willingness and preparation of the bus operator(s) to make the required changes.

[ozbob]

Media release 8th November 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: New Bus Network Survey Now Open!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has opened its bus reform survey.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Following the successful launch of our integrated bus network reform proposal (1,2), we are asking the public for their thoughts, ideas and feedback. Unlike previous government consultations, our consultation puts no restriction on what route(s) may be commented on and we show the entire bus network, not just isolated routes."

"The public can also zoom into their suburb, their house, their workplace and see the strength and weakness of the Brisbane City Council bus network both currently and what it would be like under our proposed bus reform."

As at November 8th, the current breakdown of responses is:

Brisbane Southside (the area with 100 series routes)   23%
Brisbane East (the area with 200 series routes)      15%
Brisbane Northside (the area with 300 series routes)   35%
Brisbane West (the area with 400 series routes)      19%
Buses in my area are not BCC buses      8%

"If you want more bus services to your area, you must take our survey! ----> http://tiny.cc/busreform

"We have also prepared a banner for sharing across facebook and #BusReform for use on twitter as well."

The Bus Reform Survey



References:

1. Brisbane Bus Reform: RAIL Back on Track Launches New Bus Network Proposal
--> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11047.0

2. Brisbane buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary suburbs
--> http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141105-11gxl3.html

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media release 17th November 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often For Ashgrove Electorate

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Ashgrove Electorate candidates Campbell Newman and Kate Jones to support a proposal for a 911 UQ CityConnector bus for Ashgrove.



Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Our New Bus Network Proposal will allow residents unprecedented freedom to use public transport to travel to more places, more often, without a car. As mentioned in the Australian Parliament, the suburbs of Mitchelton, Enoggera, Ashgrove, Bardon and Toowong contain high unmet demand for travel to The University of Queensland (1)."

"Our proposed 911 UQ CityConnector begins at Brookside Shopping Centre, serves Mitchelton rail station, Enoggera Rail station, Ashgrove, Bardon, Toowong Rail station, and then travels directly to the University of Queensland via Hawken Drive. We expect the 16.5 km route to take approximately 45 minutes. Time savings will come from a faster, more direct route along Metroad 5, from higher service frequencies dramatically cutting bus stop waiting time, and adopting 'CityGlider' style stop spacing for high speed. That's good news for students and staff members rushing for that 8 am lecture or exams at UQ; St Lucia residents along Hawken Drive will no longer have to wait up to half an hour for the 411 bus; We propose the 911 bus run every 15 minutes, all day.** The service will be funded in part by amalgamating the 411 and relevant sections of the Great Circle Line to keep a lid on fares."

"University of Queensland students and staff living at The Gap and along the Ferny Grove Line will not miss out either. Key Interchange Points (KIPs) at Brookside, Ashgrove and Bardon will allow UQ passengers can catch their usual bus route and then change to the 911 UQ CityConnector bus with a minimum of fuss. Real time bus information, maps, timetables, better lighting, distinctive shelters, painted curbs and in selected locations, superior bicycle parking will feature at these locations."

"These interchange points will permit passengers to use public transport like a car to go 'from anywhere to anywhere'. Previous journeys only possible by car will now be possible using public transport; this in turn will bring in more fare revenue for TransLink."

A route map of our Bus Reform proposal and bus route 911 UQ CityConnector may be found at http://backontrack.org/images/bus/reform/route911.png

RAIL Back on Track is also running a survey, which may be found at http://tiny.cc/busreform

Bus reform promises massive benefits for Brisbane, including:

(a) increased fare revenue*

(b) lower reliance on subsidies

(c) greater liberty of movement for all

(d) a more equitable distribution of hi frequency services across the city

(e) reduced carbon emissions (patronage services only)

(f) secure bus driver jobs from the threat of redundancies caused by falling bus patronage

"In our opinion, any bus tender that does not explicitly and unconditionally support bus reform, no matter how cheap the tender is, should be rejected without further consideration."

"As a change management strategy, the proposed 911 UQ CityConnector service would be introduced over the top of existing routes as a trial service, with permanency conditional on 'trading in' old routes in the area, and local consultation. Residents are more likely to accept change if the new service is introduced first and old routes adjusted after a trial period has ended."

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


References:

1. Private Members' Business, South-East Queensland: Public Transport Monday, 27 May 2013, http://www.openaustralia.org/debate/?id=2013-05-27.166.9

2. Scrap the Great Circle bus line and begin again: expert
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/scrap-the-great-circle-bus-line-and-begin-again-expert-20141105-11hi9n.html

3. Brisbane buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141105-11gxl3.html

4. Bus Reform Survey (includes links to maps) http://tiny.cc/busreform

5. Map of 911 UQ CityConnector http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11070.msg149001#msg149001
Direct image  link --> http://backontrack.org/images/bus/reform/route911.png

* TransLink retains all fare revenue and any profits generated, to cross-subsidise the network, irrespective of whether the bus operator is public or private, or the level of patronage. Bus operators are paid for their work (service x km). As operators do not keep fare revenue it is categorically incorrect to assert that a private operator will only focus on the most profitable bus routes. Operators are paid for the work they do, not how much revenue or passengers they take.

** Frequency based on route 209 UQ Lakes, which runs every 15 minutes.

[ozbob]

Media release 23rd November 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: BulimbaGlider - More Buses, More Often, for Bulimba Electorate

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on BCC councillors and Bulimba electorate candidates to support a 230 BulimbaGlider and bus reform.

Proposed 230 bus route



Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The neglect has gone on for far too long. The voters in Bulimba electorate deserve a 230 BulimbaGlider. It is an embarrassment that after two bus reviews conducted by two different levels of government, bus services in Bulimba are just as bad and hugely expensive as ever. Our New Bus Network Proposal will allow Bulimba electorate voters unprecedented freedom to use public transport to travel to more places, more often, without a car. By amalgamating existing routes, bus reform means more buses more often while keeping a lid on fares."

"Our 230 BulimbaGlider begins at Morningside train station, travels along Thynne Road to Oxford street, Riding Road, Wynnum Road, and then into the busway at Woolloongabba for a direct trip to the CBD and Roma Street. By connecting Roma Street and Morningside rail station, the rail access problem is solved at both ends. With a bus every 15 minutes all day, and every 10 minutes or better in peak hour, time savings will flow from higher service frequencies dramatically cutting waiting time at the bus stop, and adopting 'CityGlider' style stop spacing. Our proposal can be accessed from our New Bus Network Proposal survey http://tiny.cc/busreform "

"Bulimba is grossly under-serviced compared to similar inner city suburbs such as West End. For example, Bulimba's 230 bus runs approximately 60 services per day, while West End BUZ 199 which runs approximately 200 services per day. West End residents are getting about three times more service which explains why Bulimba residents suffer chronic car parking congestion issues."

"The New Zealanders in Auckland can manage to do a proper bus review, why can't we? The local member for Bulimba electorate, Aaron Dillaway MP currently has a petition for more car parking at train stations, as does candidate Di Farmer. Car parks easily cost around $40,000 each. 300 car parks x $40 000 each = $12 million to fill 30% of just one QR train! Doesn't it make more sense to reform the bus network so people can catch buses to the train station and leave the car at home?"

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


References:

The Principles Of Bus Network Reform, Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus_reform.pdf

RBoT New Bus Network Proposal Survey Flyer
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/RBOTSurveyPromo.pdf

New Bus Network Proposal survey
http://tiny.cc/busreform

Park and Ride facilities at Murarrie Train Station
http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/work-of-assembly/petitions/e-petition?PetNum=2318

Parking around Cannon Hill Railway Station
http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/work-of-assembly/petitions/e-petition?PetNum=2278

Price Reference - The Gap Park and Ride
$6 million dollars (A) for 85 car parking spaces (B) (2013$)
Divide (A) into (B): That is $70 000+ per car parking space. : The cost is likely to be even higher for multistory
car park because The Gap facility is all on the ground level.
http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/west/park-n-ride-on-waterworks-rd-to-help-commuters-use-public-transport/story-fn8m0u4y-1226581344469

[ozbob]

Media release 27th November 2014



Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often for Everton Electorate

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls Everton electorate candidates Tim Mander MP and Jeff Frew to support bus reform for an upgraded hi frequency 359 Albany Creek bus service.


http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus359.png

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The neglect has gone on for far too long. The voters in Everton electorate deserve a 359 High Frequency bus service coming every 15 minutes from 6am to 9pm at night, 7 days a week. Albany Creek and Eatons Hill is grossly under-serviced compared to similar outer city suburbs such as Bracken Ridge. Bracken Ridge residents get approximately 150 services per day on hi frequency BUZ 330, while Albany Creek residents get just 34 services per day on the 359. Bracken Ridge residents are getting almost five times more bus service than residents at Albany Creek and Eatons Hill."

"Under bus reform, the current hourly 359 would feed into the Ferny Grove Line at Mitchelton Rail station and stop at Brookside Shopping Centre. This new, upgraded 359 service would begin at Eatons Hill (Queen Elizabeth Drive), stop at Albany Creek Village, travel through Albany Creek, along Old Northern Road, stop at Brookside Shopping Centre and then feed into Mitchelton Rail. By not running the service all the way into the CBD,  funds can be raised to go towards upgrading the 359 bus to high frequency service, coming every 15 minutes during the day and every 10 minutes or better in peak times. By serving Brookside Shopping Centre, residents have the opportunity to do their shopping at Brookside during the day or after work, boosting patronage on the service. Connections to frequent trains at Mitchelton station means a reliable and congestion free trip directly into the Brisbane CBD in the morning and afternoon peak hours."

"It is an embarrassment that after two bus reviews conducted by two different levels of government, bus services in Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, McDowall and Everton Park are just as bad and expensive as ever. Our New Bus Network Proposal will allow Everton electorate voters unprecedented freedom to use public transport to travel to more places, more often, without a car. By amalgamating feeding the hourly 359 bus service into Mitchelton Rail more buses more often can be put on, while keeping a lid on fares."

"The New Zealanders in Auckland can manage to do a proper bus review, so why can't we? Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

*Services were counted by adding inbound and outbound services for the selected routes over the entire weekday.

Auckland Transport New Bus Network


Bus Reform Survey
http://tiny.cc/busreform

The Principles Of Bus Network Reform, Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus_reform.pdf

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

19th November 2014

400 CentenaryGlider Service Launch - Tonight

Centenary Residents have waited long enough. At 7.30 PM tonight at the Oxley Bowls Club, Englefield Rd, Oxley, we will be detailing our bus reform proposal for the Centenary Suburbs as part of a local election candidate's transport forum. We invite all residents and interested media to come along and hear about more buses more often for the Mt Ommaney Electorate.

Below is our map of our CentenaryGlider concept; See you all at the forum!



Reference:

http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11070.msg149032#msg149032

Sent to all outlets:

19th November 2014

TONIGHT: CentenaryGlider local launch at Oxley Bowls Club!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers will have a local launch of the 400 CentenaryGlider at Oxley Bowls Club as part of RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network proposal.

Bus reform means more buses more often for the Centenary Suburbs.

At 7.30 PM tonight at the Oxley Bowls Club, Englefield Rd, Oxley, we will be detailing our bus reform proposal for the Centenary Suburbs as part of a local election candidate's transport forum. We invite all residents and interested media to come along and hear about more buses more often for the Mt Ommaney Electorate.

After not one, but two bus reviews by two different levels of Government, public transport is as bad as ever for Centenary residents. Our exclusive research reveals that despite 15 different bus routes going to the Centenary Suburbs, not a single one is coming every 15 minutes all day. Incredibly, there are different buses on different days of the week (450 versus 453, 454), while others don't connect with Mt Ommaney Shopping Centre. Almost all provide universally poor hourly, half hourly or peak-only service wasting residents' valuable time. Fares are also hugely expensive. Compared to Moggill residents who get a single all-day high frequency bus (BUZ 444) and peak hour rocket (443), Centenary residents are getting a raw deal despite having around 3x more residents than Moggill.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk is on record as strongly opposing bus-train connections. Can the Lord Mayor explain how he expects Centenary residents to access schools, hospitals, new jobs, universities at Springfield and Ipswich if he doesn't want buses to access Darra station and perform interchange?

The Lord Mayor's own councillors know that Brisbane City Council's bus network doesn't work. In 2012, BCC Councillor Matthew Bourke (LNP) was reported in local newspapers highlighting the poverty of service Centenary residents had to endure:

"A lack of early morning and late-night services means shift workers are unable to get to Darra train station."

"University students are also finding it hard to get home after late classes."

Centenary residents deserve better. They deserve a simple, fast and frequent CentenaryGlider. The Lord Mayor should show his support for this new CityGlider service by announcing genuine bus reform. This will allow the funds locked up by existing, poor services to be traded in for new and improved services.  Why is it the New Zealanders can organise a proper bus review without fuss, but here in Queensland we do it twice, and still get nowhere?

Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all. See you tonight!

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

(Bus routes: 450 Riverhills; 451 Sinnamon Pk to Darra Station; 452 Darra Station via Riverhills; 453 Mt Ommaney via Coronation Drive; 454 Riverhills via Coronation Drive, P455 Riverhills; P456 Mt Ommaney; P457 Riverhills to City via Coronation Drive; P458 Mt Ommaney via Coronation Drive;P459 Riverhills via Coronation Drive; 460 Forest Lake; 467 Mt Ommaney/Oxley; 468 Sinnamon Park/Oxley; 103 Inala; 106 Indooroopilly to Mt Ommaney)

RAIL Back on Track is non-partisan community group and is happy to consider any request to speak from any organisation regardless of political party.

Centenary of Transport Neglect, Southwestern News, 28/03/2012
http://backontrack.org/docs/swn/swn_28mar12_p5.jpg

Push for more bus services, The Satellite, 21/03/2012
http://backontrack.org/docs/sat/sat_21mar12_p5.jpg

[ozbob]

Media release 1st December 2014

SEQ Rail Reform: Express Trains for the Ipswich Line, more trains for the Springfield Line

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Ipswich Line and Springfield Line Electorate candidates to support more trains more often for Springfield and all-day express trains for Ipswich.



Ipswich & Springfield lines - proposed
Image: Under rail reform, trains on the Springfield Line would run every 15 minutes. Ipswich line passengers would have express trains all day.
Image Credit: dancingmongoose http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/ippyr.jpg

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Rail reform goes hand-in-hand with bus reform."

"Ipswich and Springfield train services are too slow or take too long to wait for. Voters in Ipswich and Bundamba electorates also deserve fast and frequent services. Under rail reform, Springfield line train services would be doubled to a train every 15 minutes all day, dramatically slashing journey times by up to 15 minutes to the Brisbane CBD by cutting waiting time at the train station. This change permits all Ipswich trains to run express from Darra to Roma Street stopping only at Indooroopilly, all day, from first service to last service, saving around 8 - 10 minutes off journey times from Ipswich to the Brisbane CBD. The construction of a Perth-style interchange at Indooroopilly will allow all day express journeys for bus passengers in Brisbane's western suburbs. An express train takes just 8 minutes to travel between Indooroopilly and the Brisbane CBD, while a Brisbane City Council (BCC) bus can take up to twice as long to complete the same journey and risks becoming trapped in Coronation Drive congestion.  In contrast to BCC's express bus services, which only operate in peak hour, our proposed Ipswich express train service will operate all day. A similar arrangement already occurs on the Gold Coast Line."

"A faster train service for Ipswich means better access to jobs in Brisbane, and better access for Brisbane residents to cheaper homes and rentals in Ipswich. Similar benefits will be realised for Springfield."

"The New Zealanders in Auckland are improving train services because buses are being rearranged to collect passengers and drop them off at train stations. After a decade, why is it in Queensland we haven't been able to co-ordinate buses and trains to work together as a single system? Perth has also set up a similar system, which has led to Perth trains carrying more passengers than Queensland Rail despite having a lower population than Brisbane."

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

Reference:

Auckland Transport, NZ, new network
https://at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/new-public-transport-network/

[ozbob]

Media release 4th December 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: Bus Network Survey - have your say!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has invited citizens to participate in our bus network survey.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Following the successful launch of our integrated bus network reform proposal (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), we are asking the public for their thoughts, ideas and feedback. Unlike previous government consultations, our consultation puts no restriction on what route(s) may be commented on and we show the entire bus network, not just isolated routes."

"The public can also zoom into their suburb, their house, their workplace and see the strength and weakness of the Brisbane City Council bus network both currently and what it would be like under our proposed bus reform."

"If you want more bus services to your area, you must take our survey! ----> http://tiny.cc/busreform

"We have also prepared a banner for sharing across facebook and #BusReform for use on twitter as well."

The Bus Reform Survey



References:

1. Brisbane Bus Reform: RAIL Back on Track Launches New Bus Network Proposal
--> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11047.0

2. Brisbane buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary suburbs
--> http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141105-11gxl3.html

3. Brisbane Bus Reform: BulimbaGlider - More Buses, More Often, for Bulimba Electorate
--> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11089.0

4. Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often for Everton Electorate
--> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11098.0

5. Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often For Ashgrove Electorate
--> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11072.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Brisbane Bus Reform: How to fund concessions for the disadvantaged with bus reform

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers again calls for bipartisan bus reform support.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Bus reform will allow major upgrades to bus services across the entire city of Brisbane while keeping a lid on fares.

"RAIL Back on Track has released its New Bus Network Proposal and blueprints for bus and rail reform in the electorates of Ipswich, Bundamba, Everton, Bulimba and Ashgrove in time for the 2015 Queensland Election (1).

"Under bus reform, residents of these electorates will enjoy unprecedented freedom to use public transport to travel to more places, more often, without a car.

"Bus reform savings can also fund extending concessions to the most vulnerable and needy in our society.

"Brisbane is not the first city to undertake bus reform. New Zealand is doing it now and Perth did it in the 1990s. Bus reform means both competitive contracting and bus route network reform."

WA Auditor General documents detailing Perth's bus reforms (2, 3, 4) to contracting show:

* The former monopoly public bus authority in Perth, the Metropolitan Transport Trust (MTT), was operating inefficiently and failing to meet changing commuter needs. Transperth's bus system was thus split into contract franchise areas and put to competitive tender.

* The cost of providing a similar level of Transperth bus services was estimated, in real terms, to be $30.9 million less in 1996-97 than it was in 1992-93. This represented a cost reduction of about 20% in four years as a result of bus reform.

* Transperth provided more bus services, for less cost, in financial year 1998-99 than it did prior to Bus Reform in financial year 1992-93. Bus Reform halted a long-term trend of increasing annual bus expenditure.

* A 40% increase in patronage was achieved using existing resources on three bus routes in the Rockingham area. A modest redesigning of existing  bus services, using freed-up resources, achieved this.

* The efficiency of delivering a bus service per kilometre remained steady for the first four years of Bus Reform, but improved significantly when the services were contracted to the private sector.

"Every dollar saved from bus reform should fund concession public transport for the unemployed and those on centrelink payments as well as fund more services, more often for residents stuck in the black hole areas of Centenary, Yeronga, Albany Creek and Bulimba."

"If the opposition does not support bus reform, in our opinion, it risks repeating the same failure that caused it to lose office last election after they were forced to raise fares by 15% and 20%, slamming minimum wage workers, refugees, the unemployed and Centrelink recipients, because they were engulfed by Brisbane City Council's bus cost explosion."

"What is the Government's and Opposition parties' policy? Rising, unaffordable fare increases and a broken fare structure or genuine bus network reform and fixing the fare failure for the longer term?  Knee-jerk fare cuts and fare freeze gimmicks do not sort the underlying systemic issues. Just means more massive fare cost increases and bus service cuts down the track after the election."

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11099.0

2. Competition Reform of Transperth Bus Services Report No 3 – June 1997 Performance Examination https://audit.wa.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/report97_03.pdf

3. Bus Reform: Further down the road A follow-on examination into competition reform of Transperth bus services Performance Examination Report No. 6 June 2000 https://audit.wa.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/report2000_06.pdf

4. Bus Reform: Competition Reform of Transperth Bus Services, Report 3 – June 1997 https://audit.wa.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/1997-Insert-BusReform.pdf

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media release 8th December 2014

Brisbane Bus Reform: Even More Buses For Ashgrove Electorate

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Ashgrove Electorate candidates Campbell Newman and Kate Jones to support more buses more often for The Gap.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Our research shows that Brisbane City Council's bus services do not match the distribution of residents within The Gap. As part of our New Bus Network Proposal, we are now pleased to release blueprints for more buses to The Gap and Ashgrove Electorate. Recycling existing waste and inefficiency within the current BCC bus network funds our reforms while keeping a lid on fares and growing farebox revenue. That's good news for passengers and government."


Image: Route BUZ 380 The Gap via Payne Rd Bus Reform Proposal. Image credit: Aldonius.



New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

"The current BUZ 385 misses a large part of The Gap; a BUZ 385 realignment along Settlement, Kaloma and Hilder roads places all residents north of Enoggera Creek within walking distance of a hi-frequency bus service. The very modest costs to make this change would be offset by increased fare revenue from more passengers, who are now placed within walking distance of the bus service."

"Services along Payne Rd are abysmal. By eliminating bus route network waste, duplication and inefficiency, a new Hi frequency 380 The Gap via Payne Rd can be created. This service travels from The Gap (Payne Rd) through Ashgrove Village, along Waterworks Road, Red Hill and through Roma Street Busway to the CBD. With a bus service every 15 minutes from 6 am - 11 pm, 7 days, residents of Ashgrove and The Gap can consider selling their cars."

"The benefits of bus reform are enormous. Perth bus reform saw a 20% cost saving from introducing competitive contracting alone. Bus route redesign using existing resources in the Rockingham area saw a 40% patronage increase. By combining both organisational reform (contracting) with network reform (New Bus Network Proposal) patronage and revenue falls can be sharply reversed. Bus driver jobs will also be protected by growing patronage."

"Bus reform means more buses more often. What is the Government's and Opposition parties' policy? Rising, unaffordable fare increases or genuine bus network reform?"

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

References:

1. Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often For Ashgrove Electorate
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11072.0

2. Brisbane Bus Reform: How to fund concessions for the disadvantaged with bus reform
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11123.0

3. Premier Campbell Newman in fight for survival in Ashgrove, poll reveals
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/premier-campbell-newman-in-fight-for-survival-in-ashgrove-poll-reveals/story-fnn8dlfs-1227147167541

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media release 13th December 2014

Queensland Votes: Bus Reform is now Greens' Election Policy

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls all parties contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to unconditionally support bus reform.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"RAIL Back on Track is a non-partisan organisation. We are more than happy to promote our ideas to anyone willing to listen to us. The Greens have released their 2015 election transport policy (1). "

"The Greens Support Bus Reform. Key features of their 2015 Election policy are:

* Public Transport Concessions extended to Health Care Card Holders (paragraph #21)
* Replace the controversial Tertiary Transport Concession Card with 'live' smartcards (paragraph #22)
* A new fare structure for South East Queensland (paragraph #26)
* Bus Reform (paragraph #27)

"We invite the other parties and independents contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to submit their transport policies to us at RAIL Back on Track."

Bus Reform means:

(1) Competitive Contracting;
(2) Bus Network Reform - routes and stop spacings

"The benefits of bus reform are enormous. Perth bus reform saw a 20% cost saving from introducing competitive contracting alone. Bus route redesign using existing resources in the Rockingham area saw a 40% patronage increase. By combining both organisational reform (contracting) with network reform (New Bus Network Proposal) patronage and revenue falls can be sharply reversed. Bus driver jobs will also be protected by growing patronage."

"Voters over such a wide area covering so many state electoral seats have been affected by the lack of bus reform and the high-cost explosive fares. A very large potential for an election featuring public transport as a key election issue has been put into motion. Our New Bus Network Reform Proposal (http://tiny.cc/newnetwork) affects 30% of the seats in Queensland Parliament (approximately 26 electoral districts out of the 89 in Queensland)."

"Only genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform will guarantee abundant and low cost public transport for all."

Reference:

1. Queensland Greens Transport Policy Statement http://qld.greens.org.au/qld/policy/transport

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media release 5th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: Add Moorooka to BUZ 100

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls for the realignment of BUZ 100.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The current BUZ 100 should be considered for realignment as part of a New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane, and implemented by whoever the new bus operators will be for Brisbane in late 2015. Rail services on the Beenleigh line were upgraded in January 2014 so that Moorooka station now has trains coming every 15 minutes all day. In addition, this part of Moorooka is also serviced by the route 116 Rocklea bus."

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

"The current BUZ 100 does not match the distribution of residents within the Moorooka area. Instead, it prioritises supplying expensive high frequency bus service to new and used car yards over Moorooka residents."

"Realigning the BUZ 100 along Granard and Beaudesert roads would open up high frequency bus services to the Moorooka shopping precinct, the suburbs of Rocklea and give access to Bunnings. Realignment would significantly increase patronage by matching services with residents and areas with passenger demand. By using CityGlider-style stop spacing, bus service speed can be kept high for Inala passengers."

"These changes will also allow future changes to the 125 Sunnybank service and other network reforms to proceed more easily within this area as part of a larger New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane."

"The sooner Brisbane gets new bus operators that are willing and able to undertake the difficult task of bus network reform, the sooner fares can come down and patronage falls reversed."

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

1. City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19

http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

2. New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

3. New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform

4. Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

[ozbob]

Media release 6th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers today releases a summary report into issues with BCC's bus network and calls all parties contesting the 2015 Queensland Election to support bus reform.

As part of our New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane, we release an additional summary report detailing what went wrong with the BCC bus network. The Lord Mayor is on record stating that the BCC bus network is 'not broken'. We disagree. Now, anybody can download our report and see why fares escalated.

Download Report Here > Frequency is Freedom  PDF 4.8MB

We show:

    * Who gets frequent bus service in Brisbane, and the suburbs that are public transport black holes under BCC's 'no transfer' philosophy (pages 5 - 8 ).

    * How bus reforms rejected by BCC are being implemented in Brisbane's sister city of Auckland, New Zealand (page 10).  A package of improvements in Auckland has seen train patronage grow 17% (2014) and bus patronage grow 7% (2014). In contrast, Brisbane bus patronage fell by 1 million and traffic congestion increased by 3%.

    * The cost escalation mechanism. Upgrading the bus network while insisting all buses drive direct to the CBD and not adjusting the surrounding legacy network leads to escalating costs which implies increased fares. (pages 11 - 12)

    * How BCCs bus network and anti-interchange philosophy places buses exactly where they are least required, wasting resources and congesting the Brisbane CBD. As an example we analyse the Moggill Rd/Coronation Drive corridor showing that this also leads to too few buses in the suburbs, causing long waits for BCC's own residents. (Pages 14 -16)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to a bus network that leaves entire suburbs without decent bus service (e.g. Yeronga, Bulimba, Centenary, Albany Creek) (Page 17 - 18)

    * How BCCs bus network philosophy leads to an enormously complicated, fragmented, expensive-to-run, low frequency network in the suburbs. (i.e. 15 different bus routes to the Centenary suburbs, where none frequent). Despite BCC's in-house 2013 review, examples still exist of where service does not properly match the distribution of residents and straightening is required (Page 20).

Our analysis suggests Brisbane City Council was a key driving force behind the escalating 15% fare increases. While BCC does not set fares, it does set bus supplier costs, and obviously, higher costs equals higher fares. Private bus operators bidding for contracts within the Brisbane area should offer to do what BCC refuses to do - offer to run a simple, frequent and connected-style bus network.

The sooner Brisbane gets new bus operators that are willing and able to undertake the difficult task of bus network reform, the sooner fares can come down and patronage falls reversed.

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

Coronation Drive Analysis (Diagram)



http://s998.photobucket.com/user/tramtrain/media/BR_wasteogram_zps01c22678.png.html

Brizcommuter
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/brisbane-city-council-bus-network.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/brisbane-city-council.html
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/more-of-brisbane-city-councils-not.html

New Year, New Bus Operators?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11164.0

2014 – A Year in Review Part 1 – PT, Auckland Transport Blog
http://transportblog.co.nz/2014/12/29/2014-a-year-in-review-part-1-pt/

Brisbane Buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

[ozbob]

Media release 9th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: More Buses, More Often for Brisbane Central Electorate

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Premier Campbell Newman and Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk to support more buses, more often for the Brisbane Central Electorate.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Our research shows Brisbane City Council's bus services could be better matched to residents in the Electorate of Brisbane Central. As part of our New Bus Network Proposal, we are pleased to release blueprints for more buses within these suburbs. Recycling existing waste and inefficiency within the current BCC bus network funds our reforms, keeping a lid on fares and growing farebox revenue. That's good news for passengers.


http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus192.png

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform
Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

"Under bus reform, bus route 192 West End-CBD would be realigned and extended through the Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, and along James Street to the Brisbane Powerhouse. Weekend services would also be introduced to route 192 for the first time, running at least every 30 minutes on Saturday and Sunday until 10 pm. Incredibly, our map of Brisbane City Council's bus network reveals that Brisbane City Council only supplies service along James street with an hourly daytime service - the 470 Toowong. This service misses the Brisbane Powerhouse and the very high density development around it. James Street is a well known outdoor dining and entertainment area with cinemas, and was once slated for a Light Rail service."

"By recycling, redesigning and adjusting existing routes, bus reform means more buses more often while keeping a lid on fares. What is the Government's and Opposition parties' policy? Rising, unaffordable 20% fare increases or genuine bus network reform?"

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

Brisbane Buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform

Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

[ozbob]

Media release 13th January 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: 'FREE' bus upgrade for Seven Hills and Carina!

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Campbell Newman and Annastacia Palaszczuk to upgrade buses for Seven Hills and Carina residents.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"As part of RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane Seven Hills and Carina residents will get a bus upgrade. Our proposal for the 200 bus service recycles existing resources, can be achieved at virtually ZERO cost and requires no new infrastructure; this means it can be implemented within the first 100 days of winning office."

"The current BUZ 200 Carindale service duplicates the high frequency 222 Service from Coorparoo all along Old Cleveland Road to Carindale. Under bus reform, this duplication would go, giving high frequency bus service to more people in Seven Hills and Carina."


http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus200.jpg
Image Credit: Whistling Nixie

New Bus Network Proposal > http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

New Bus Network Proposal Survey > http://tiny.cc/busreform

Current BCC Bus Network > http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

A new Hi 200 Carindale bus would service:

* Queen Street Bus Station
* SE Busway through to Wooloongabba
* Macrossan Avenue
* Stanley Road
* Meadowlands Road
* Carindale Interchange.

"Maps comparing the current Brisbane City Council bus network to our New Bus Network Proposal are available (see links). RAIL Back on Track has also published extensive bus reform proposals for this election, including for marginal electorates such as Bulimba and Brisbane Central."

"The existing 222 Carindale service via the Eastern Busway can also be upgraded to a bus every 10 minutes all day at virtually zero cost with this proposal. Over time, super-buses capable of carrying 150 passengers should be phased into this route. International precedents show that super-buses can be run on surface streets with no busway infrastructure at all (e.g. Stockholm Bus Lines 3, 4, Paris RoissyBus to Paris-CDG Airport)."

"These simple reforms to the BCC bus network will result in greatly improved bus service for residents of East Brisbane, Norman Park, Seven Hills, and parts of Camp Hill and Carina. CityGlider-style stop spacing means high speed for all passengers and strong additional patronage along this improved route."

"Any public transport policy that does not have bus contracting and bus network reform at its core is unlikely to generate the necessary funds to pay for upgrades required all across Brisbane. The political party that offers genuine reform of rail and bus networks, together with fare reform, is the political party able to guarantee low cost and abundant public transport for all."

"We look forward to the response by Campbell Newman and Annastacia Palaszczuk, and swift publication of detailed transport policies on their respective websites."

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

The Principles Of Bus Network Reform, Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/bus_reform.pdf

City's public transport will never improve while run by opposing sides Couriermail 11th April 2012 pages 18-19
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p18.jpg
http://backontrack.org/docs/cm/cm_11apr12_p19.jpg

The contracting of urban bus services – Recent Australian developments
Ian P. Wallis and David J. Bray, Research in Transportation Economics
Volume 48, December 2014, Pages 48–61.
http://doi:10.1016/j.retrec.2014.09.031

[ozbob]

Media release 9th March 2015

Brisbane Bus Survey: Jackie Trad Must Fix Graham Quirk's Bus Network



RAIL Back on Track releases public feedback on our New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane today. We call on Transport Minister Jackie Trad to take action and fix Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus network. Under our New Bus Network Proposal, Brisbane will have Australia's best bus network within two years. Feedback to our proposal has been very supportive with one commenter writing "This is the redesign that Translink should have consulted and educated the people of SEQ on." Lord Mayor Quirk has said that he has no interest implementing much needed reform –  the Transport Minister must take action to bring Brisbane's bus network into the modern era. Bus reform will allow more services, for more people, more of the time!

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated) ---> http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network ---> http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Survey Findings ---> http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/2015RBOTBusReformSurvey.pdf

Survey Submissions (Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network) ---> http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/BusReformFeedbackBCC.pdf

Survey Submissions (RAIL Back on Track New Bus Network Proposal) ---> http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/RBOT_Feedback_Part2.pdf

Our New Bus Network Proposal

Over 12 months, a team of RAIL Back on Track members reviewed Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus network. Our research uncovered waste, duplication, inefficiency and black holes, which in our opinion, contributed to the massive escalation of fares under the Bligh and Newman administrations (1).

Our New Bus Network Proposal translates Brisbane City Council's own recommendations from The Lord Mayor's Mass Transit report (2007) into a practical, affordable and workable proposal.

Key features of The New Bus Network Proposal for Brisbane include:

* Affordability - new services are created by reforming old services, introducing smart connections and eliminating wasteful competition, inefficiency, and duplication. New services are possible while keeping a lid on fares.
* 60 % increase in Hi Frequency bus routes.  A total of 32 Hi-Frequency buses compared to Brisbane City Council's 20
* A 400 CentenaryGlider connecting the Centenary Suburbs to the Brisbane CBD via Coronation Drive
* A 230 BulimbaGlider connecting Bulimba to the Brisbane CBD and Morningside station, with 24-hour operation on Friday and Saturday nights.
* Super-buses with capacity for 150 passengers on high-load bus routes 66 UQ Lakes, 412 St Lucia, 400 CentenaryGlider, 222 Carindale and 333 Chermside
* Transit poverty in black-hole areas such as Albany Creek, Yeronga, Centenary, and Bulimba dealt with.

The Survey

The survey opened to the public in November 2014, and was promoted through social media for four months. Respondents directly compared Brisbane City Council's Bus Network against our New Bus Network Proposal using innovative service-quality maps from their home computer, and comment on any issue using free text boxes. To date, neither Brisbane City Council nor TransLink has been able to produce a single, public, legible map showing all bus services in Brisbane and their service quality. Based on this survey, RAIL Back on Track has made minor adjustments to the proposal.

The Findings

* Strong support (89%) for bus reform after viewing Auckland Transport's (NZ) Bus Reform Video
* 70-80% of resources should be directed to Hi Frequency bus services, the remainder to coverage services. This was measured by using an explicit trade-off test.
* Strong support (87%) for all day hi-frequency bus services over peak hour rockets. This was measured by using an explicit trade-off test.
* This indicates a major shift in the attitudes and values of Brisbane residents. Peak hour rockets are not the main transit product and should no longer be the main focus.
* Strong support (90%) for more connections. When passengers are asked to choose between direct service or connections in exchange for major high-frequency bus service expansion, passengers choose connections. This is a direct contrast with Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's assertion that people do not want to connect and goes against Brisbane Transport's bus operating philosophy.
* Total of 81 completions with rich and detailed responses - focus group type response with detailed feedback
85% of survey respondents indicated that RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network was better than Brisbane City Council's existing bus network.

We invite TransLink and Transport Minister Jackie Trad to run their own survey research asking the same questions on the TransLink website.

Conclusion

RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network proposal will stop the waste, stop the inefficiency, and stop the massive fare increases and patronage decline. With no expensive new infrastructure to build, our proposal is low cost, affordable and can be completed rapidly to become a landmark signature achievement of the new administration's first term.

We call on Transport Minister Jackie Trad to end the outsourcing of bus operations to Brisbane City Council. Instead, the Queensland Government should run the buses itself by 'uploading' Brisbane Transport into the Queensland Government. Precedents already exist with Queensland Rail and State Transit Buses in New South Wales. The Queensland Government already owns Brisbane City Council's buses and pays for the majority share of the operating costs anyway.

Transport Minister Jackie Trad should negotiate a contract where TransLink would rent Brisbane City Council's bus depots, and separately offer all existing Brisbane Transport staff to leave Brisbane City Council and work for the Queensland Government on the same terms when Brisbane Transport's contract expires in September. This would reverse the Queensland Government's 1925 decision to hand public transport to Brisbane City Council.

To everybody who participated and provided rich and detailed feedback - Thank you! Our proposal is now updated to reflect your feedback.

References:

1. Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

2. Brisbane Bus Reform: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11175.0

3. Lord Mayor's Mass Transit Report 2007
http://www.weca.org.au/Resources/sept07-final-report-brisbane-mass-transit-investigation-lmt1.pdf

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media Release 6th April 2015

Brisbane Bus Reform: 230 BulimbaGlider - A Purple CityGlider for Bulimba?



RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for Transport Minister Jackie Trad to announce a BulimbaGlider upgrade, now that the Bulimba Barracks are for sale.

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated) ---> http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network ---> http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Bus Reform Blueprint ---> http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

The Australian Defence Force has confirmed that the 23-ha Bulimba Barracks are to be sold. This is prime waterfront land that would support medium density South Bank style apartments set in public parkland. Importantly, a South Bank style development without bus access would increase car traffic in the area substantially and local car traffic at all hours of the day and night. This is because not all important destinations are on the CityCat network. Hence the need for bus upgrades in the Bulimba area.

The Bulimba area is grossly under-serviced compared to similar inner city suburbs such as West End or New Farm, which also have CityCat service. The Bulimba area receives about 60 services per day per direction, mostly from routes 230 and 235. In comparison West End and New Farm receive about 120 services per day per direction just from BUZ 199, let alone BUZ 196 or the Blue CityGlider.

Under bus reform, the 230 BulimbaGlider would combine 230, 235, 231 Rocket and 236 Rocket services into a single high-frequency bus service, complete with 'light rail style' high-speed bus stop spacing. BulimbaGlider buses would feature all door boarding and run 24 hours on Friday and Saturday nights, supporting local businesses within the Bulimba dining and entertainment precinct. TransLink's own data supports bus upgrades as both 230 and 235 bus services register 'Very high capacity utilisation' which means that the buses are very well patronised. This high bus patronage occurs despite CityCat services in the area.

The Bulimba Barracks site has a number of mature Jacaranda trees on site and lining the western boundary along Thynne Road. Given the first CityGlider was Blue, the second one Maroon, Jacaranda purple appropriately reflects the local environment and identity of Brisbane. Purple is also a colour associated with royalty.

We have responded to previous objections by Cr Julian Simmonds that our earlier BulimbaGlider proposals did not serve Thynne Road. In our New Bus Network Proposal, we now propose extending the BulimbaGlider service along the entire length of Thynne Road to an interchange at Morningside Station. As CityGliders are Brisbane City Council initiatives, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk should be approached for at least 50% of the funding for the new purple 230 BulimbaGlider service.

RAIL Back on Track does not support the suggestion of a park and ride car park. Car park construction is very expensive (~ $70 000/space) and will convert the quiet Apollo Road Ferry terminal into a centre of congestion chaos. If any parking is to be provided, it should be strictly limited to kiss-and-ride, bicycle parking and scooter parking only.

Bus services in the Bulimba area are terrible and need a total shake-up. The changing density and development of Brisbane mean that Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's 1988-style bus network now needs a major dose of bus reform.

References:

Calls for Bulimba glider rejected http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/calls-for-bulimba-glider-rejected-20120201-1qtbt.html

Brisbane buses: Call for CityGlider in Centenary suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

Bulimba Barracks to be sold for residential development, parkland
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/bulimba-barracks-to-be-sold-for-residential-development-
parkland-20150405-1meahl.html#comments

History of Purple http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purple#In_art.2C_history_and_fashion

Price Reference - The Gap Park and Ride
$6 million dollars (A) for 85 car parking spaces (B) (2013$)
Divide (A) into (B): That is $70 000+ per car parking space. : The cost is likely to be even higher for multi-story
car park because The Gap facility is all on the ground level.
http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/west/park-n-ride-on-waterworks-rd-to-help-commuters-use-public-transport/story-fn8m0u4y-1226581344469

Attachments
RAIL Back on Track New Bus Network Proposal BulimbaGlider 230
http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/bus230update.jpg

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Media release 12th April 2015



Brisbane Bus Reform: Bigger Better Buses for Brisbane!

RAIL Back on Track calls on Transport Minister Jackie Trad to take action and fix Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus network. Under our New Bus Network Proposal, Brisbane will have Australia's best bus network within two years.

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated)
>> http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network
>> http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Report: Frequency is Freedom
>> http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

Super Sized Super-buses

MAN Lion´s City GL CNG – Bus of the Year 2015

Super-buses can carry 150 passengers in one go. Upgrading the bus fleet means more capacity for passengers during peak hours, more efficient use of staff labour and therefore allows more buses to be put on elsewhere in the network.

RAIL Back on Track proposes super-sizing buses on the following routes:

Route 66 RBWH to UQ Lakes via Busway
Route 222 Carindale Interchange via Old Cleveland Rd
Route 333 Chermside Interchange
Route 400 Centenary to CBD (new service)
Route 412 CBD-St Lucia

With all door boarding, high speed and modern new super-buses it will be the closest passenger experience to Light Rail without actually laying the track.

Bus Reform can be a signature project by the current administration, and can be completed entirely within the first term of office. Our members would like to see some action now that the election is over.

References:

1. Fixing Graham Quirk's Broken Bus Network
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11047.msg154120#msg154120

2. MAN Lion's City GL CNG is "Bus of the Year 2015"
http://www.bus.man.eu/global/en/city-buses/man-lions-city-cng/bus-of-the-year-2015/Bus-of-the-Year-2015.html

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

19th April 2015

Greetings,

Brisbane Bus Reform: Australia's Best Bus Network Within 2 Years

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Deputy Premier Jackie Trad MP to implement bus reform. Bus reform will give Brisbane Australia's best bus network within 2 years.

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated)
http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network
http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Report: Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network Proposal will increase patronage, revenue and supply better bus services for the entire city of Brisbane within 2 years. Buses will work better when they can properly connect with trains and each other. There are many very simple and effective ways to do this.

Firstly, there needs to be a basic change in the way bus maps are presented. A whole-of-network approach would use service quality mapping to show higher quality bus services as thicker lines and lower quality bus services as thinner lines, in the same way that motorists know that freeways are different from local roads. Opportunities for easy interchange should also be easy to spot.

Secondly, the places where passengers can connect from a bus to another bus, train or ferry needs to be clearer and have a higher standard, such as lighting, real time information and shelter. These key interchange points (KIPs) should look visibly different to standard bus stops, in the same way that CityGlider bus stops look different to standard bus stops.

Thirdly, a number of key interchange points need better bus access. Minor works are required at the following locations:

* Zillmere Station (connect Pretoria and Zillmere road for direct bus access to station; 175 m)
* Morningside Station (construct bus turnaround on Richmond Rd next to QR car park)
* Albion Station (consider options for cross town buses 901 access to Albion station)
* Coopers Plains Station (connect Rookwood Ave and Beaton Street; 220 m)
* Stafford Shopping Centre (a second bus platform on eastern side will allow all buses, including 369, to leave from the shopping centre car park)
* Indooroopilly Station (consider bus access and layover options at Indooroopilly Rail station)

The previous administration had three years to make solid changes to the bus network but failed to implement the necessary changes for Brisbane. In the end, offering the electorate price discounts on a poor network that passengers were leaving anyway didn't impress voters.

Had just one of our suggested routes been implemented - The BulimbaGlider in the most marginal seat of Bulimba - the 1 extra seat in the Queensland Parliament could have changed the outcome of the Government today.

We call on Deputy Premier Jackie Trad MP to implement the BulimbaGlider and the New Bus Network proposal.

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org


Reference:

Brisbane Bus Reform: 230 BulimbaGlider - A Purple CityGlider for Bulimba? http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11363.0

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

20th April 2015

Greetings,

Brisbane Bus Reform: 400 CentenaryGlider Superbus

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Deputy Premier Jackie Trad MP to implement bus reform.

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated)
http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network
http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Report: Frequency is Freedom
http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

Under bus reform Brisbane will have Australia's best bus network within 2 years.

A key part of bus reform is 'deconvoluting' the mess that is the western suburbs bus network. Buses are placed exactly where they are least required, flooding the CBD with too many buses while leaving too few in the suburbs. The plain truth is, Brisbane City Council runs 15 different bus routes into the Centenary Suburbs and not a single one is a frequent BUZ service. The Centenary Suburbs are a public transport black hole.

Centenary Suburbs residents are not happy - the electorate of Mt Ommaney is the second most marginal seat, held by a margin of just 0.23%

Under our 400 CentenaryGlider proposal, buses would run every 10 minutes between the Centenary Suburbs and the Brisbane CBD. Darra Station, Mt Ommaney Shopping Centre, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre and Coronation Drive would all be serviced. Superbuses capable of carrying 150 passengers each and all door pre-paid boarding on the service would be standard. The speed of the service would be maintained by employing 'Light Rail' style stop spacing and all door boarding.

Over time, CentenaryGlider would replace the other bus routes going to the CBD.

The previous administration had three years to make solid changes to the bus network but failed to implement any significant improvements for Brisbane. In the end, offering the electorate price discounts on a poor network that passengers were leaving anyway didn't impress voters.  This no doubt contributed to the defeat of the Newman Government.

We call on Deputy Premier Jackie Trad MP to implement the 400 CentenaryGlider and the New Bus Network proposal.

Best wishes,
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

Marginal Seats Queensland
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-election_pendulum_for_the_Queensland_state_election,_2015

Call for CityGlider in Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html


http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/route-400b.jpg

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

22nd April 2015

Greetings,

Brisbane Bus Reform: 120 Reasons For A New Bus Network

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls on Deputy Premier Jackie Trad MP to implement bus reform. Bus reform will give Brisbane Australia's best bus network within 2 years.

New Bus Network Proposal (Updated)
> http://tiny.cc/newnetwork

Current Brisbane City Council Bus Network
> http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

Report: Frequency is Freedom
> http://backontrack.org/docs/bus/reform/BusReformBlueprint.pdf

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus network is riddled with problems, and the 120 bus service is a good demonstration of that. This bus comes within 800 m of Coopers Plains train station. With its high frequency and extended hours of service it would make an excellent bus service for passengers between Garden City, Griffith University, QEII Hospital and the Beenleigh line. Coopers Plains station has trains to the CBD every 15 minutes during the weekday, making connections a breeze. So, does the bus connect with the train? Of course not!

Under RAIL Back on Track's New Bus Network Proposal, the route 120 bus service would be changed to connect with trains at Coopers Plains station. Buses would enter Beaton Street, travel along a new one way bus lane into Coopers Plains Station and then out to the CBD via Rookwood Avenue.

Two separate bus stops could be established - one for picking passengers up, and another for dropping passengers off. Griffith University students and QEII Hospital Staff would now have a high-frequency bus connection to the Beenleigh line every 15 minutes from 6am - 11pm, 7 days a week.

Our New Bus Network Proposal will increase patronage, revenue and supply better bus services for the entire city of Brisbane within 2 years. Buses will work better when they can properly connect with trains and each other.


http://backontrack.org/docs/busreform/bus120b.png

Best wishes
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

8th May 2015

Greetings,

Brisbane Bus Reform: Call for public to choose CentenaryGlider colour

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called on the public to help decide what the colour of our proposed 400 CentenaryGlider should be.

We are calling on the public to help us nominate what colour our CentenaryGlider should be. Go to our campaign website at http://tiny.cc/centenaryglider, learn more about our proposal and submit your suggestions there. Some of the more novel choices include Silver, Gold and Rainbow.

The proposed CentenaryGlider would run every 10 minutes and begin at Darra station, travel through Riverhills, Middle Park, Mt Ommaney, Jindalee, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Coronation Drive and the Brisbane CBD. Superbuses capable of carrying 150 passengers would be used along with high-speed stop spacing to make the service as close to Light Rail as possible. Services would run 24 hours on Friday and Saturday nights.

RAIL Back on Track's 12-month review of the Brisbane City Council bus network identified a need for a CentenaryGlider service in the Centenary suburbs. The sad fact is that after two rounds of bus reviews, public transport services in the Centenary suburbs are as bad as ever.

Our research shows that the more bus routes that are in an area, the worse, not better, public transport in that area tends to be. For example, there are 15 different bus routes to the Centenary area. Not a single one of those services come every 15 minutes. Compare this to Moggill which has just two bus routes - an express bus P443 in peak hour and a BUZ 444 coming every 15 minutes all day. Moggill residents are getting a far better bus service with two bus routes than Centenary residents are with fifteen bus routes.

The Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and Deputy Premier Jackie Trad really need to get behind this. Patronage on Brisbane City Council's bus network is falling and that could mean in the future that bus drivers lose their jobs simply because they don't have the customers to justify running those bus services. The people of Centenary suburbs aren't happy with public services in their area, and you can see that reflected in the fact that the seat of Mt Ommaney is only held by 0.23%.

Bus reform means more buses more often, and will give Brisbane Australia's best bus network in 2 years.

Best wishes,
Robert

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

Centenary of Public Transport Neglect
http://backontrack.org/docs/swn/swn_28mar12_p5.jpg

Brisbane Buses: Call for CityGlider in the Centenary Suburbs
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/brisbane-buses-call-for-cityglider-in-centenary-suburbs-20141104-11gxl3.html

Brizcommuter Blog
http://brizcommuter.blogspot.com/2013_03_01_archive.html

Hundreds sign for more sustainable transport
http://www.thesatellite.com.au/news/hundreds-sign-for-more-sustainable-transport/575554/

Bus routes neglected
http://www.northernstar.com.au/news/bus-routes-neglected/1768555/

[ozbob]

Media release 8th September 2015




Brisbane: Lord Mayor and BCC still cannot be trusted to run city's buses

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web-based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls for Deputy Premier Jackie Trad to terminate Brisbane City Council's public transport responsibilities.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Almost three years ago we called for public transport to be removed from Brisbane City Council. Council had cancelled proposed bus upgrades to 'black hole' areas such as Bulimba, Yeronga, Albany Creek and The Centenary Suburbs. In our opinion, an inadequate bus review was substituted, which failed to fix any of the major problems such as service duplication, wasteful bus-train competition and network complexity - all factors that drove a fares cost explosion."

"Since then patronage has been going one way: down, down, down.

"The excuses are running out. We had been warning constantly that failure to reform the bus network would lead to mass patronage losses, and a fares and subsidy cost explosion.

"Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus 'evolution, not revolution' has hands-down failed. Two years of this failing program is more than enough evidence to judge it by. At 4 bus route changes per year, it would take 50 years to review Brisbane's c.a. 200-route bus network. That is just unacceptable.

"Brisbane needs a modern, reformed public transport network like Houston or Auckland. And it doesn't have to cost much more than the current network. If the Mayor of Auckland can hire the ex-head of Brisbane Transport to comprehensively reform Auckland's entire bus network, which is now registering spectacular growth, we can do also, rather than sit here debating how controversial it must be to have buses pull up to a train station and unload interchange passengers."

"Costs are going through the roof, and patronage is going through the floor. We are actually now paying MORE money for LESS passengers."

Bus reforms must now proceed. We detail our proposals here:

Bus reform - our proposal media releases grouped - http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11099.0
New Bus Network Proposal - http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
Current BCC Bus Network - http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

"The sooner the Lord Mayor and Brisbane City Council is stripped of transport functions, the sooner genuine reform of rail and bus networks can go ahead, and the sooner we can look forward to abundant and low-cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

27 Apr 2013: Lord Mayor and BCC can no longer be trusted to run city's buses
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9895.0

6 Jan 2015: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11175.msg151940

Blame game as Brisbane commuters abandon buses
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/blame-game-as-brisbane-commuters-abandon-buses-20150907-gjh4tf.html

[ozbob]

Media release 11th  September 2015

SEQ: Time to overhaul the Brisbane bus network

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has said it is time to reform the Brisbane Bus network.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"TransLink attempted to reform the Brisbane bus network in 2013.  Non-cooperation by BCC, in preventing Brisbane Transport to meet with TransLink during network planning and preparation was very concerning.  Recent comments by the Deputy Mayor on Twitter has confirmed that Council is not interested in reform but is happy to see patronage plummet and continuing network failure (1)."

"The fundamental problem with the Brisbane bus network is best explained by consideration of this graphic for buses running on Coronation Drive (2).

http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af104/tramtrain/BR_wasteogram_zps01c22678.png


"A direct service model, where in essence every bus from the suburbs is directed to run into the CBD, results in massive overlap, waste, inefficiency, bus-jam, poor connections and consequently poor frequency where it is needed.

"There needs to be consolidation of bus routes so that manageable high frequency trunk corridors are supported by frequent feeder buses in the suburbs. Rail needs proper support with frequent feeder bus.  Park and ride is a costly, finite resource.

"By doing this, more people will have more buses more often.  Connections will be made. Cross suburban runs can be achieved.

"The drop off in bus patronage is not due to fare unaffordability alone. It is also a consequence of a poor network design and poor service , particularly in the suburbs.

"If BCC do not wish to participate in reform, then the correct thing to do is remove control of Brisbane Transport from Brisbane City Council and get on with it.

"Brisbane is no longer surrounded by market gardens, it is constant suburbia at Council boundaries.  SEQ needs a proper integrated network, optimising all modes, bus, rail and ferry.

"The public transport network for SEQ is not the place for petty selfish politics.  We need a much improved outcome for our community, free from political bias.

"Our members have worked for over a year, at no public cost on a new network proposal (3).  It would go a long way to sorting out the problems with our public transport network. It is not ' the ' solution, but ' a ' solution.  It would be a great start point for reform.

"Can BCC please put politics aside, and sit down with TransLink and get the best outcome for Brisbane and SEQ?  Or will selfish politics continue to dominate the failure?"

References:

1. http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af104/tramtrain/20150910AS_zpshuz3dc3u.jpg

2. http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af104/tramtrain/BR_wasteogram_zps01c22678.png

3. Brisbane Bus Reform: RAIL Back on Track Launches New Bus Network Proposal
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11047.msg148434#msg148434

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Twitter

'Time to overhaul the Bne bus network'

http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11649.0

@Team_Quirk @Rod4Bris @Schrinner @jackietrad

#qldpol

[ozbob]

Media release 8th September 2015 re-released 24th October 2015



Brisbane: Lord Mayor and BCC still cannot be trusted to run city's buses

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web-based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers calls for Deputy Premier Jackie Trad to terminate Brisbane City Council's public transport responsibilities.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Almost three years ago we called for public transport to be removed from Brisbane City Council. Council had cancelled proposed bus upgrades to 'black hole' areas such as Bulimba, Yeronga, Albany Creek and The Centenary Suburbs. In our opinion, an inadequate bus review was substituted, which failed to fix any of the major problems such as service duplication, wasteful bus-train competition and network complexity - all factors that drove a fares cost explosion."

"Since then patronage has been going one way: down, down, down.

"The excuses are running out. We had been warning constantly that failure to reform the bus network would lead to mass patronage losses, and a fares and subsidy cost explosion.

"Lord Mayor Graham Quirk's bus 'evolution, not revolution' has hands-down failed. Two years of this failing program is more than enough evidence to judge it by. At 4 bus route changes per year, it would take 50 years to review Brisbane's c.a. 200-route bus network. That is just unacceptable.

"Brisbane needs a modern, reformed public transport network like Houston or Auckland. And it doesn't have to cost much more than the current network. If the Mayor of Auckland can hire the ex-head of Brisbane Transport to comprehensively reform Auckland's entire bus network, which is now registering spectacular growth, we can do also, rather than sit here debating how controversial it must be to have buses pull up to a train station and unload interchange passengers."

"Costs are going through the roof, and patronage is going through the floor. We are actually now paying MORE money for LESS passengers."

Bus reforms must now proceed. We detail our proposals here:

Bus reform - our proposal media releases grouped - http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11099.0
New Bus Network Proposal - http://tiny.cc/newnetwork
Current BCC Bus Network - http://tiny.cc/checkyourbus

"The sooner the Lord Mayor and Brisbane City Council is stripped of transport functions, the sooner genuine reform of rail and bus networks can go ahead, and the sooner we can look forward to abundant and low-cost public transport for all."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

References:

27 Apr 2013: Lord Mayor and BCC can no longer be trusted to run city's buses
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9895.0

6 Jan 2015: Brisbane City Council's Bus Network - What Went Wrong?
http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11175.msg151940

Blame game as Brisbane commuters abandon buses
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/blame-game-as-brisbane-commuters-abandon-buses-20150907-gjh4tf.html

[ozbob]

bump