The Tasmanian government is looking to implement the Keeping Hobart Moving transport strategy, as the plan is out for public feedback.
The once-in-a-generation transport plan is beginning to move, with the strategy including a new integrated rapid bus network alongside new and enhanced active transport options for the Hobart community.
Tasmanian transport minister Michael Ferguson says the strategy comes as population growth requires a modernised urban transit system in Hobart.
“The Keeping Hobart Moving strategy outlines our long-term vision for transport and shows how the vast range of transport initiatives will interconnect,” Ferguson says.
“It’s an aspirational plan – one that sets us on the path to a contemporary and exciting transport network, making the most of our river, roads and bridges to provide commuters with an attractive alternative to private car use.
“The next decade and beyond will see transport and infrastructure changes across Hobart like we’ve never experienced before, including new Derwent ferry terminals and routes, a new integrated rapid bus network and new and enhanced active transport options. We need to see the other levels of government play their part, especially in the area of funding as the plan is locked in and progressively costed.”
The proposed intermodal transit solution will include new infrastructure, such as dedicated lanes, intersection priority and bus stops and stations, to make bus services more comfortable, faster and reliable.
The first part of this includes more all-weather bus stops, which the government has already announced as on the way.
More bus stops around the state are set to be upgraded with round two of the All-access All-weather Bus Stop Upgrade Grant Program now open for applications from councils.
Ferguson says almost 100 stops were already approved for an upgrade through the first round of the program announced in June.
“Round one saw funding spread across nine local government areas around the state from Brighton to Burnie with state government funding matched by councils,” Ferguson says.
“Available for bus stops located on council roadsides, the program sees the state and local government coming together to improve facilities for local communities and encourage more people to give buses a try.
“The program aims to bring the state’s priority stops up to modern accessibility standards making life easier for those with mobility issues. It is also providing facilities that are more comfortable for passengers whether waiting in sunshine, rain, hail or snow, or anywhere in between.”
Round two of the program will allow more local government areas to submit their priority bus stop upgrade proposals for assessment and funding.
“By assessing stops based on factors including patronage levels and the number of health facilities and businesses within the area serviced by the bus stop we are making sure the most used and most needed shelters are prioritised,” Ferguson says.
“With the round one upgrades expected to be complete by January, opening round two now will mean we have a pipeline of projects ready to proceed.
“With some 3,500 bus stops located around the state, anyone wanting to nominate one for an upgrade should speak to their local council.”
This initiative will join the government’s planned review of bus services, implementation of integrated ticketing solutions, bus priority measures, a transit lane on the Southern Outlet and more park and ride facilities.
“The ultimate aim is a connected city embracing new, improved and sustainable transport options that provide more flexible and efficient journeys and an improved passenger experience with real-time information and new technologies,” Ferguson says.