18 May 2012: SEQ: Express rail services needed before after the game

[ozbob]

Media release 18 May 2012

SEQ: Express rail services needed before after the game

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 calls for express rail services before and after games at Suncorp Stadium.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Last weekend's Suncorp game resulted in significant traffic jams in the western suburbs (1, 2).  It is presumed this is due to people driving to railway stations close to Milton rather than endure a slow moving train to and from the game.  These trains should run express to and from Darra to give a faster trip and better load balancing.  A similar treatment could easily be done for the Caboolture line."

"Unfortunately, this is complicated by the full time services which serve all stations all the way to Ipswich.  It would be easier to coordinate the specials if there were more services full time, there would be far less need for specials for events, particularly heading to the event.  These specials are quite expensive to operate, and even more so because of so many station stops."

"It has also been observed by some that services will run to the clock despite a game running over time. These services need to be held.  As soon as trains are full they should depart immediately."

"Events such as football games provide an opportunity to get non public transport users to try the services, however the current services fall short."

References:

1. http://queensland.snarl.com.au/incidents/single/232669

2. http://queensland.snarl.com.au/incidents/single/232674

Contact:

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

[ozbob]

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