30 Mar 2012: SEQ: Too much parking (free or paid) is causing congestion

[ozbob]

Media release 30 March 2012

SEQ: Too much parking (free or paid) is causing congestion

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 the over supply of car parking, whether free or paid, is making our traffic problems worse.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The over supply of car parking combined with over-crowded or infrequent public transport, and unsafe pedestrian/cycle access is forcing almost 90% of all trips to be by motor vehicle.  Many of which could easily be made using public or active transport."

"The availability of easily accessible car parking is one of the most most important factors in a drivers decision to drive. Our roads are full each and every day because drivers know that a parking space will be available at the other end. Even a paid one."

"All levels of government have spent 50 years trying to out build congestion with roads and build or require more car parking.  Yet these are the two factors that actually induce people to drive more (1)."

"Traffic congestion, car parking and public transport will be hot topics in the Queensland local government elections, particularly in Brisbane. All candidates are asked to refrain from the false claims that building more roads and increasing car parking availability will reduce congestion.  The reality is they create congestion not reduce it!"

"Frequent around the clock public transport services with appropriate support for active transport, cycling and walking, is the way forward."

Reference:

1. http://economicsintelligence.com/2011/10/24/why-new-roads-do-not-alleviate-congestion/

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

Car parking solutions discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=532.0