9 Feb 2012: SEQ: Light Rail can be sexy too!

[ozbob]

Media release 9 February 2012

SEQ: Light Rail can be sexy too!

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, says that Gold Coast Light Rail can be sexy too!

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track, said:

"RAIL Back on Track welcomes news that the Gold Coast Light Rail project is progressing and will transform how people get about on the tourist strip. Comfortable and fast light rail vehicles travelling on their dedicated track will hold more than 300 people each and have allocated spaces for surfboards.

"We also welcome news that light rail is stimulating development at a time when the Coast economy is subdued.  It is creating hundreds of construction jobs.  While state and local government have invested heavily in its success, they will reap revenues indirectly through stamp duties and rates from new retail and accommodation precincts along the light rail route.

"Now is not the time to halt the project or change its route, as has been suggested in some quarters.  More thought needs to be given to staging works so that pedestrian access can be provided to affected businesses.  Vacant land where development has stalled could become temporary car parks.

"Far from the Gold Coast's iconic Meter Maids being put out of business by shifting the travel mode share from cars to public transport, Rail Back On Track believes they may have a role in being ambassadors for the light rail service.

"They could perform in a customer service role, giving information, providing direction and perhaps even selling TransLink products or souvenirs. The Meter Maids are an important cultural icon for the Gold Coast and Queensland.  Some due consideration should be given thought to how they may play an expanded role in a more sustainable transport environment for the Gold Coast. Perhaps they could top up Go Cards too, as well as top up parking meters?

"Perhaps funding could be raised by local chambers of commerce, Gold Coast City Council, TransLink or through on-board sales.

"Light Rail can be sexy too," Mr Dow said."

Reference:

Meter maids plan protest against light rail
http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2012/02/09/389225_gold-coast-news.html

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

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