On the Bicycles

[hU0N]

I'm not doubting this will make Sylvan Road safer, and I'm not bemoaning the removal of car parks per se either. I just think that this change (mostly) doesn't increase the width or capacity of the bike lane in any meaningful way, and is motivated by the prevalence of doorings and parking car vs bike accidents along this stretch. And this change is going to p%ss off the locals by kicking them out of their street parks twice a day. If you are going to do that, you might as well earn the wrath of the locals while making the infrastructure better. Instead, they are going to burn all their goodwill on a spot of car banning. But then, what can you expect from a council run by Liberals, who believe government exists for two purposes, and two purposes only; to lower taxes and to ban stuff.

[OzGamer]

Brisbane Times - http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/greens-proposed-segregated-bike-lanes-for-brisbane-cbd-20151216-gloqoq.html

"The Greens have fired their first major salvo in their bid for City Hall, with a $6 million plan for segregated CBD bike lanes.
Greens lord mayoral candidate Ben Pennings said the party's "Safer CBD Roads" policy would create a grid of separated bike lanes throughout the inner-city."

[ozbob]

Brisbane Times - http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/greens-proposed-segregated-bike-lanes-for-brisbane-cbd-20151216-gloqoq.html

"The Greens have fired their first major salvo in their bid for City Hall, with a $6 million plan for segregated CBD bike lanes.
Greens lord mayoral candidate Ben Pennings said the party's "Safer CBD Roads" policy would create a grid of separated bike lanes throughout the inner-city."

Thanks.  This is in the BCC election thread here > http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=11398.msg165677#msg165677

[James]

I'm not doubting this will make Sylvan Road safer, and I'm not bemoaning the removal of car parks per se either. I just think that this change (mostly) doesn't increase the width or capacity of the bike lane in any meaningful way, and is motivated by the prevalence of doorings and parking car vs bike accidents along this stretch. And this change is going to p%ss off the locals by kicking them out of their street parks twice a day. If you are going to do that, you might as well earn the wrath of the locals while making the infrastructure better. Instead, they are going to burn all their goodwill on a spot of car banning. But then, what can you expect from a council run by Liberals, who believe government exists for two purposes, and two purposes only; to lower taxes and to ban stuff.

Of course, but any change which can be made which will improve the capacity of the road or make it a safer environment is a good thing.

To the contrary, I wouldn't be surprised if the locals welcome the move. I live near a school, and the staff park everywhere from 7am onwards. If I want a park outside my own house, I either have to put the car out by 6:30 in the morning or park halfway to Toowong. The clearway will provide an area where staff (and parents) don't park, which will make it easier for people to park outside their own houses during the off-peak.

[ozbob]

Twitter

Brisbane CBD BUG ‏@cbdbug

Know somewhere GOOD, BAD or could be IMPROVED. Mark it on the @space4cyclingbn map

https://www.collaborativemap.com/Space4Cycling 

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Brisbane bikeways: Council silent on $5 million cycle plan

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> Four cyclists escape injury after being hit by a bus at Palm Beach

[red dragin]

Gold Coast Bulletin --> Four cyclists escape injury after being hit by a bus at Palm Beach

From reading the article it sounds like they failed to give way to the bus (assume its indicator was on).

[ozbob]

Slightly different tale here ..

Brisbanetimes --> Gold Coast bus hits cyclists, one injured

[ozbob]

Executive Style --> Ten things motorists need to know about cyclists

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Cyclist passing law saving lives: RACQ

[ozbob]

Minister @MarkBaileyMP announces on @612brisbane the 1m rule is staying pic.twitter.com/5ZZovkSl5e

— Spencer Howson (@SpencerHowson) April 6, 2016

[ozbob]

^

ABC News --> Queensland adopts law ensuring one metre between cars and cyclists following trial

[ozbob]

[ozbob]

^

Twitter

Robert Dow ‏@Robert_Dow 10 minutes ago Brisbane, Queensland

. @scottemerson Well done on the 1 metre law Scott. Pity the same foresight was not exercised for the bus network reform .. #qldpol

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/4/7/stay-wider-of-the-rider-here-to-stay-in-queensland

Media Statements

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Thursday, April 07, 2016

'Stay wider of the rider' here to stay in Queensland

Following an independent assessment, the Palaszczuk Government has decided to keep the Minimum Passing Distance Road rule, to boost safety for Queensland cyclists.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey announced the decision today, on the two year anniversary of the trial, while launching a re-boot of the Stay Wider of the Rider education campaign.

"The one-metre rule is intended to improve interactions between cyclists and motorists on Queensland roads by making motorists more aware of cyclists and encouraging them to leave enough space between their vehicle and the bicycle rider," Mr Bailey said.

Mr Bailey said the decision follows a recommendation from the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q).

"We commissioned CARRS-Q to independently evaluate the rule, in terms of its road safety benefits and practical implementation, to inform the Palaszczuk Government's decision – delivering on a 2015 election commitment." he said.

"The report found the rule has been very effective in improving motorists' awareness of bicycle riders," he said.

Mr Bailey said the rule requires motor vehicles to provide cyclists with a minimum passing distance of one-metre when overtaking cyclists at 60km/h or less and a metre and a half when the speed limit is greater than 60km/hr.

"Motorists can cross centre lines, even on roads with double unbroken lines and drive on painted islands, as long as it is safe to do so to pass a bicycle rider," he said.

"The evaluation found that awareness of the rule is very high, however there was less awareness of the ability to cross centre lines when safe to do so.

"A second phase of the Stay Wider campaign, will have a strong educational focus, and will run from April to June to remind road users of the rule, including the ability of motorists to cross centre lines when overtaking bicycle riders.

"The minimum passing distance rule is also included as part of Queensland's written and practical driver tests."

Mr Bailey said the CARRS-Q report also recommended additional measures to address practical difficulties in implementing the rule.

"To address this feedback, TMR will work with Queensland Police to investigate and trial technologies that might assist in accuracy and practical application in enforcement.

Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was also expanding the state's dedicated cycling network to make it easier and safer for Queenslanders to cycle.

"We're investing $163 million over four years because cycling infrastructure is a fundamental part of our transport system, not an optional extra – The Palaszczuk Government will deliver over 88 kilometres of cycling facilities when completed." he said.

"We also committed $10 million to improve cyclist and pedestrian safety through road upgrades addressing known and potential crash locations."

Mr Bailey was joined by a number of stakeholders at the launch including CARRS-Q, Bicycle Queensland, Bicycle User Group Brisbane, RACQ and the Amy Gillett Foundation.

"I'm glad to be surrounded by supporters of the one-metre rule and would like to particularly thank the Amy Gillett Foundation for their successful "A metre matters" campaign and their passion and persistence to implement this important safety measure for cyclists," he said.

Visit the Join the Drive website: http://jointhedrive.qld.gov.au/on-the-road/bicycle-riders

[ozbob]

QUT - Evaluation of the Queensland Minimum Passing Distance Road Rule

>> http://eprints.qut.edu.au/94655/

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2016/4/11/action-on-palaszczuk-governments-new-cycling-strategy

Media Statements
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Monday, April 11, 2016

Action on Palaszczuk Government's new cycling strategy

Queenslanders are invited to have their say on initiatives to be included in a refreshed cycling strategy for the state.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the updated cycling strategy for Queensland reflected the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to get more people cycling more often.

"We want to hear from a range of cycling stakeholders and interest groups to ensure the views and needs of all Queenslanders, including those living in regional locations, will be adequately represented," Mr Bailey said.

"The strategy will set the direction for cycling in Queensland over the next 10 years and be accompanied by a two-year action plan.

"We face a lot of challenges on our journey to make cycling an attractive, comfortable and safe option for all Queenslanders. This is our chance to overcome these challenges and plan for the future.

"I encourage people to view the website and participate to help to shape the strategy's direction and make Queensland the cycling state."

Mr Bailey said all types of bicycle riders, as well as people who don't ride but would like to, were encouraged to have their say.

"Interested parties can take part in the online survey from Friday 8 April to Sunday 24 April available on the Get Involved website. Written submissions are also welcome," he said.

"I will also be hosting the Palaszczuk Government's first cycling forum in May this year to hear first-hand what Queenslanders want for their cycling future.

"Riding a bike benefits everyone, even those who don't currently ride, by reducing congestion, pollution and the negative impacts of inactive lifestyles.

"We want to increase the number of people who ride their bikes and to give them the opportunity, support and infrastructure they need to do it safely.

"I am excited to hear the responses from this forum and to see our great state pedal forward."

Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was expanding the state's dedicated cycling network to make it easier and safer for Queenslanders to cycle.

"We're investing $163 million over four years because cycling infrastructure is a fundamental part of our transport system, not an optional extra." he said.

"I recently announced that the minimum passing distance rule, requiring a motorists to give a safe distance when passing cyclists, is here to stay and re-launched the Stay Wider of the Rider education campaign to improve awareness of all aspects of the rule.

To have a say in the cycling strategy, visit http://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.

For more information on the Queensland cycle strategy, proposed activities and key dates, visit http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Travel-and-transport/cycling.

[ozbob]

^

>> http://surveymonkey.com/r/C3ZY6TK 

10-minute survey for your input to the new Qld Cycling Strategy

[ozbob]

BCC --> Sylvan Road peak period bike lane trial - Toowong

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Cycle strategy under early review

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> Council maintains cycling accident on Annerley Rd not caused by roadworks

[ozbob]

BCC --> Sylvan Road peak period bike lane trial - Toowong

Couriermail Quest --> Cycling lane: new bike lane trial in Toowong impacts business

[ozbob]

British Transport Film 1955

Cyclists Special

An interesting look back.

[ozbob]

Take a ride on the temporary 1.2km shared path along the Gateway Upgrade North #cycling #brisbane https://t.co/nPb1r71kOp

— Transport Main Roads (@TMRQld) June 9, 2016

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> Line marking mistake on Brisbane roadway left unchanged for days

IT was the new council roadmarking that had locals looking twice.

Residents of Keble St, Corinda, were bemused to see a new bike lane marking in their street — complete with the N in 'END' painted back to front.

The dodgy signage was left on the road for at least five days.

Space4Cycling spokesman Chris Cox said that aside from the back to front N, it was an example of council doing the bare minimum for active transport.

"You could say this is reflective of the backwards approach in Brisbane to bike infrastructure," he said.

"But jokes aside, the backwards N is the most minor of problems with this work.

"The lane is so narrow that the sign can't be painted on asphalt. It intersects with a manhole cover that gets incredibly slippery in wet weather. The drain grate poses a further slip threat. And, like so many bike lane end points, it pushes cyclists directly into conflict with motorists who will be wanting to turn left or right."

Mr Cox said there is no restriction on parking along the rest of the street and that the bike lane is frequently blocked.

"There's also no bike lane in the other direction. It's an example where a painted bike lane is arguably worse than nothing at all," he said.

"The frustrating thing is that the parkland alongside Keble St was recently upgraded and beautified with gardens close to the street and a park.

"This would have been an ideal location to place a protected bike lane, or shared path rather than the narrow standard footpath in place."

A Brisbane City Council spokesman confirmed council had recently completed road resurfacing along Keble St and new line marking was done as part of the project.

"It is believed the 'END' stencil was placed on the road upside down, resulting in the letter 'N' appearing back to front. Council has amended the line marking."

[ozbob]

Sydney's bicycle laws are a joke if we want to be considered a global city > https://t.co/FnmahZJ3nc#nswpol #ByeMike

— Robert Dow (@Robert_Dow) August 27, 2016

[ozbob]

Media Statements
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

North Brisbane Bikeway link open for cyclists

Up to 5,000 cyclists will be able to take advantage of stage one of the North Brisbane Bikeway, now it is open to the public.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey and Member for Brisbane Central Grace Grace were onsite today to officially open Stage One of the North Brisbane Bikeway with local cyclists from Bicycle Queensland, Brisbane North BUG and space4cycling.

"The Palaszczuk Government is committed to expanding cycling infrastructure, and this section through inner-city Brisbane is an important link in t South East Queensland's cycle network," Mr Bailey said.

"Stage 1B of the North Brisbane Bikeway, extends, upgrades and widens the existing bikeway along Breakfast Creek, and establishes a new separated cyclist and pedestrian path.

"When fully constructed, we are expecting up to 5000 cyclists to use the North Brisbane Bikeway daily."

Ms Grace said the $3.3 million section of stage one was a key link in South East Queensland's cycling infrastructure.

"Stage 1B links through to Stage 1A at Bowen Park, and will eventually connect to stage two in Windsor," Ms Grace said.

"Now that this section of the North Brisbane Bikeway is complete, cyclists and pedestrians will be much safer and better connected.

"When completed, the entire North Brisbane Bikeway will stretch over 4.3km, providing safer riding for cyclists and reducing cars and congestion on the road network.

"It will be the icing on the cake for local cyclists and residents who want to live in a cleaner, greener Brisbane.

"760,000 Queensland cyclists ride each week, and we'll continue to invest in the infrastructure they need."

Bicycle Queensland CEO Ben Wilson said the completion of Stage 1B was great news for Brisbane's northside bike riders.

"The separation of cyclists from motorised traffic makes it easier for more people to cycle and get where they need to go safely," Mr Wilson said.

"It's great to see this new section open to the public and I look forward to seeing the Brisbane's cycle network continue to expand."

Stages two and three of the North Brisbane Bikeway are currently in the design phase and are due for completion in late 2018.

The Palaszczuk Government invested nearly $37 million into cycling infrastructure in 2015-16, which is fantastic news for Queensland's growing population of cyclists.

For more information visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/N/North-Brisbane-Bikeway 

ENDS

[ozbob]

Magpies are out! Keep track of attack areas on this map: https://t.co/o09vXUoBb2 #magpies #birdsgonebad pic.twitter.com/TpuVPqKHyu

— Bicycle Queensland (@bicycleqld) September 19, 2016

[Derwan]

https://www.hpw.qld.gov.au/qtenders/tender/display/tender-details.do?id=19040&action=display-tender-details

The Department of Transport & Main Roads invites offers for the provision of contractor assistance to undertake a trial and evaluation of Passing Distance Measurement Technology.

Contractor assistance is required to:
(1)    Investigate, trial and report on devices that measure and record the lateral passing distance between bicycles and motorised vehicles.
(2)    Investigate and report on the issues surrounding the collection and use of video evidence related to the lateral passing distance between bicycles and motorised vehicles.

[ozbob]

^
Media Statement
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Tenders open for minimum passing distance technology trial

The Palaszczuk Government will trial technology to enforce the minimum passing distance between cyclists and motorists.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the Government was putting safety first by seeking technology to help better understand compliance with the road rules.

We want to identify available devices that can measure the passing distance between cyclists and motorists to help keep people safe while sharing the road," Mr Bailey said.

"Tenders are now open and we are also seeking input into the collection of video evidence and its usefulness in enforcement.

Mr Bailey said the rule was implemented following a successful two-year trial, which required motorists to provide one-metre distance when passing at 60km/h or less and a metre and a half over 60km/h.

"The one-metre rule was introduced to make motorists more aware of bicycle riders and encourage motorists to leave enough space between their vehicle and the bicycle," Mr Bailey said.

"Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q) delivered an independent report evaluating the rule and found that nearly half (43.1%) of drivers agreed they were more aware of bicycle riders than they were 12 months prior.

"The report also recommended additional measures to address assist with implementation.

"We are working with Queensland Police to investigate trial technology to help with accuracy in assessing passing distances."

Mr Bailey said since the Queensland trial and adoption of the rule, the ACT, NSW and SA have announced similar road rules and VIC are currently considering them.

"The passing distance is measured from the right-most part of the bicycle or the cyclist and the left-most part of the vehicle or something sticking out from the vehicle, such as a side mirror," he said.

"To help educate road users of the changes, our Stay Wider of the Rider campaign was run again earlier this year, including the ability for motorists to cross centre lines when overtaking cyclists."

For more information on the minimum passing distance rule, visit http://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/other/cyclists/index.html.

Tender applications close 10 October, 2016.

ENDS

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Cyclists push for more room on roads

[ozbob]

Today we're releasing the results of the 12mth Annerley Rd peak cycle lanes trial & announcing a clear way forward https://t.co/nCe26FDN81 pic.twitter.com/ozaAGc1j3v

— Cr Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) October 5, 2016

[ozbob]

Annerley Rd Peak hour bike lanes to become permanent 24/7 bike lanes in new Woolloongabba bikeway announced today #cyclingbne pic.twitter.com/WX9hXIezrK

— Team Quirk (@Team_Quirk) October 5, 2016

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Woolloongabba Bikeway to remedy bike black spots

Permanent separated bike lanes will be built along one of the most dangerous routes in Brisbane and now Queensland's peak cycling body has set its sights on the city's CBD.

Deputy mayor Adrian Schrinner announced Brisbane City Council's $11 million Woolloongabba Bikeway project on Thursday morning, which would see permanent paths separated from parts of Annerley Road and Stanley Street by concrete barriers.

It was a long time coming for cyclists, with 31 serious accidents in the past six years, two of which were fatal.

Cr Schrinner said the 1.7-kilometre stretch of Annerley Road leading to Stanley Street would have bikeways running both ways, with a separated section closer to the intersection.

The decision to permanently separate bike and motor traffic was made after a 12-month trial at the accident hotspot, which resulted in 90 per cent of about 630 respondents to a council survey of cyclists, pedestrians, residents and business owners coming out in support of the infrastructure.

Bicycle Queensland development officer Andrew Demack said the announcement was good news for cyclists and would encourage more people to turn to pedal power.

But Mr Demack said there remained at least one major black spot in Brisbane's cycling infrastructure.

"Bicycle Queensland and a lot of other cycling groups have certainly got a focus on the CBD and would love to work through the issues around separated bikeways through the CBD," he said.

"It's really complicated and it's difficult but really, the council and the state government over the last 15 to 20 years have done all the easy bits and now we're into the hard stuff.

"The CBD is difficult, but we believe separated bikeways through the CBD is one of the things Bicycle Queensland and other cycling groups are targeting over the next few years."

Cr Schrinner said such an approach in the CBD was "something that council is keen to pursue".

"It'll have to be a targeted approach, because we have a big road network and we can't do it on every road," he said.

"There are reasons why you can't do it on every road, but certainly where there's a need, where there's an identified safety risk, that's certainly an option we're now looking at in a number of locations."

Regarding the Woolloongabba Bikeway, Cr Schrinner said it would become a "cycling superhighway for the south side of Brisbane" that would deliver the highest possible level of safety 24 hours a day.

"This is all about safety; it's about delivering an improved situation both for cyclists and for motorists," he said.

The project would include two "floating" bus stops, which would have the cycling lane on the inside of the bus stop, closer to the kerb.

The work on Annerley Road and Stanley Street bike infrastructure would begin early next year and take about a year to complete, with most work being undertaken at night.

In addition to the bike lanes, car access to Clarence and Crown streets to and from Annerley Road would be closed.

"It will be a small inconvenience for a big improvement in safety," he said.

Local Greens councillor Jonathan Sri said the decision was the result of a long-running community campaign.

"This is a fantastic decision, but Brisbane is still way behind other cities around the world when it comes to cycling infrastructure," he said.

"...One of the best ways to make motorists' and cyclists' lives safer, get more cars off the road and reduce congestion is to separate cars from bikes with barrier separated bike lanes."

[ozbob]

We're seeking feedback on route options for Stage 2 of the #Samford to #FernyGrove Cycle Link. Visit https://t.co/I2BfOlxL2K by 21/11. pic.twitter.com/0NQu5fomX6

— Transport Main Roads (@TMRQld) November 17, 2016

[ozbob]

17th November 2016

Media Release
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports and Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply
The Honourable Mark Bailey

New pedestrian and cycle bridge to link Bli Bli and Maroochydore

Construction of a new $2.98 million dedicated pedestrian and cycle bridge across Eudlo Creek on David Low Way at Maroochydore will start next week.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government contributed $2.24 million towards the project, with Sunshine Coast Council contributing $740,000 through the Cycle Network Local Government Grants program.

"The new three-metre-wide bridge will be built north of the existing road bridge, separating motorists from pedestrians and cyclists," Mr Bailey said.

"We're committed to investing in cycling infrastructure to make it easier and safer for more people to ride bikes across Queensland.

"This new bridge will improve pedestrian and cyclist connectivity to the Maroochydore foreshore and the Maroochydore town centre.

"The missing link will be completed in the cycle network by providing a dedicated cycle path along David Low Way from Maroochydore to Bli Bli, improving connectivity for cyclists who use this section of road daily.

"We have listened to the community and are pleased to work with council to deliver this vital piece of infrastructure to improve connectivity for locals and tourists alike."

Division 7 Councillor Ted Hungerford said the project would provide a safe route for cyclists of all abilities.

"This new bridge will make a big difference for people cycling between Bli Bli and Maroochydore," Cr Hungerford said.

"The new bridge will replace the current footway on the existing vehicle bridge and provide a safer crossing alternative over Eudlo Creek.

"Separating pedestrians and cyclists from the road network is a great solution that will be achieved with an innovative design using aluminium frames and composite fibre reinforced concrete decks.

"Council selected an innovative design and construction solution to minimise disruption to the existing vegetation and local environment. The bridge components will be pre-fabricated off-site and assembled into place to avoid lengthy on-site construction times and equipment.

"The design also includes decorative elements at key locations within the project site to complement the natural setting.

"This has been a long time coming and is a very important piece of infrastructure. It will greatly enhance the safety of the transport network in this area."

Damien Jones from the Suncoast Cycling Alliance said the project would provide a missing link for cyclists that is well overdue for the community.

"It will open up both sides of the creek to people who wouldn't usually ride due to the danger of riding on the existing vehicle bridge," said Mr Jones.

"Both bike riders and pedestrians alike will now be able to safely cross from Bli Bli to Maroochydore."

The new bridge is part of a $5.68 million investment by council and the Queensland Government for a cycleway between Maroochydore and Bli Bli, making sustainable travel easier for residents.

ENDS

[ozbob]

RIP Banana bars! Council is investigating alternatives & will consult residents on more suitable options for our bikeways. pic.twitter.com/EBi4MEyCYX

— Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) November 28, 2016

[ozbob]

Council to remove banana bars to boost bikeway safety: https://t.co/0QLgXxgdBM @Team_Quirk pic.twitter.com/T6bsefneGp

— Adrian Schrinner (@Schrinner) November 29, 2016