4 Sep 2012: SEQ: Bus network review underway

[ozbob]

Media release 4th September 2012

SEQ: Bus network review underway

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 welcomed the notice posted on the TransLink web site announcing the commencement of the SEQ Bus Network Review (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The bus network in south-east Queensland is long overdue for an overhaul."

"RAIL Back On Track has argued that the fastest, cheapest way to boost public transport is to introduce frequent and rapid services along main arterial roads, and increase rail and ferry services in existing corridors. This would require little or no new infrastructure, be rapid and quick to implement. And most of all, inexpensive when compared to larger 'big ticket' infrastructure items such as new busways or railway lines (2).

"Brisbane Transport for example currently operates around 220 bus routes - we think that's a lot of bus routes, and believe that fewer, simpler, more legible and more frequent services could be achieved simply through consolidation. Most of the network is over a decade old and more, and was created in a time when integrated fares, integrated ticketing and integrated planning were not around and operators competed with one another. Times have changed and the network must change also."

"A core frequent network is only part of the solution however.  Proper local coverage and feeder bus routes are also needed. Improved frequency and span of hours can be achieved by savings made from eliminating service duplication and in so doing improving connectivity not only to high frequency bus but rail as well."

"TransLink has indicated that public feedback will be sought from the 10th September via a Service Review Form (1).  It is important that all citizens give their viewpoints, by doing that a better integrated demand responsive network can be achieved."

References:

1. SEQ Bus Network Review http://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/service-updates/details/1346370543

2. Do-it-yourself Brisbane Bus Network Review! http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=8959.0

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=9045.0

[ozbob]

Please note the survey web address as changed.

New survey is at  https://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/gi/consultation/614/survey/809/view.html

[Golliwog]

This closes Sunday. Is it worth re-releasing this in an attempt to get the media to push it one last time before the survey closes off?

[ozbob]

Sent to all outlets:

3rd December 2012

SEQ: Bus Review

Greetings,

Later today it is expected that further public feedback will be sought on the next phase of the bus review by TransLink.

Poster boards have been out on the network indicating that suggested route changes will be made available from the 3rd to 16th December 2012 on the TransLink web site.

Passengers are asked to get involved.

Best wishes
Robert

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

Media release 4th September 2012

SEQ: Bus network review underway

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 welcomed the notice posted on the TransLink web site announcing the commencement of the SEQ Bus Network Review (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The bus network in south-east Queensland is long overdue for an overhaul."

"RAIL Back On Track has argued that the fastest, cheapest way to boost public transport is to introduce frequent and rapid services along main arterial roads, and increase rail and ferry services in existing corridors. This would require little or no new infrastructure, be rapid and quick to implement. And most of all, inexpensive when compared to larger 'big ticket' infrastructure items such as new busways or railway lines (2).

"Brisbane Transport for example currently operates around 220 bus routes - we think that's a lot of bus routes, and believe that fewer, simpler, more legible and more frequent services could be achieved simply through consolidation. Most of the network is over a decade old and more, and was created in a time when integrated fares, integrated ticketing and integrated planning were not around and operators competed with one another. Times have changed and the network must change also."

"A core frequent network is only part of the solution however.  Proper local coverage and feeder bus routes are also needed. Improved frequency and span of hours can be achieved by savings made from eliminating service duplication and in so doing improving connectivity not only to high frequency bus but rail as well."

"TransLink has indicated that public feedback will be sought from the 10th September via a Service Review Form (1).  It is important that all citizens give their viewpoints, by doing that a better integrated demand responsive network can be achieved."

References:

1. SEQ Bus Network Review http://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/service-updates/details/1346370543

2. Do-it-yourself Brisbane Bus Network Review! http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=8959.0

Contact:

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