23 Jun 2009: SEQ: Call to fund QR Passenger ...

[ozbob]

Media Release 23 June 2009

SEQ:  Call to fund QR Passenger to allow the immediate implementation of  more Citytrain services

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has said the release of the audit exposing the critical and precarious nature of urban transport in south east Queensland means that immediate actions are needed.  QR Passenger needs to be properly funded to allow a rapid expansion of Citytrain services.  The money from pointless road and tunnel projects should be redirected to public transport.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The Queensland Auditor General's report has confirmed what most commuters already knew.  We need more rail, bus and ferry services during the day and night.  Rail can be ramped up almost immediately if funded.  This will give some immediate relief from the nightmare that is the road gridlock as bulk mass transit capacity will be gained.  Use of feeder buses to key stations will also help ease the car parking crisis, a major issue for citizens and local government."

"Rather than channelling money into bottomless pits of tar, invest in sustainable transport options for the future.  Heavy rail is the fastest growing transport mode nationally.  Bus is doing a sterling job, but buses are not trains.  We have the rail infrastructure, time to use it effectively."

"Actions are needed today.  More coherent long term planning processes are necessary but how much longer do we have to endure this present day transport mediocrity?"

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org