11 Feb 2010: SEQ: Extra bus services and changes very welcome

[ozbob]

Media Release 11 February 2010

SEQ:  Extra bus services and changes very welcome

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 welcomed the announcement of bus changes from the 22nd February (1).  There is a need though for further services and route innovation on the bus network generally, and more services on the Citytrain network (2).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The extension of the route 66 bus from QUT Kelvin Grove busway station to Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital busway station is a much needed improvement.  This will help address the delays passengers have been experiencing from Herston inbound at peaks.  The additional 66 bus services will ease the the pressure on the other buses such that loading at all busway stations on the INB will be improved."

"We call on TransLink to monitor loading times at QUT Kelvin Grove busway station  and introduce additional services if there are unexpected delays following the changes.  The student population will surge from February 22nd and it may be necessary for some fine tuning of services to optimise capacity."

"The introduction of a novel bus route based on a combined 66 and 109 pattern would provide a 'one seat' connection from RBWH to UQ Lakes, linking up all major medical precincts in Brisbane together with the  rail interchange at Roma St Station and the UQ and QUT Kelvin Grove campuses.  This novel route could provide the capacity and flexibility to cap the potential utility of the investment in the busways."

"The other route changes and improvements are welcome. Bus loading times are improving as passengers take up the go card.  What is missing though is capping and periodical ticketing options for the go card (3)."

"Additional Citytrain services are needed as well. Improved frequency must be a priority, this will encourage public transport use.  The bus changes are a great start, but more is needed, particularly on rail."


References:

1.   http://www.translink.com.au/servicechange.php?id=421

2.   SEQ: Public transport rail frequency needs radical improvement http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3410.0

3.   SEQ: Go card - additional ticketing options required  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3383.0


Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

See --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3425.0