Queensland Government commits Budget funding for a ‘special new bus service’ for commuters in Brisbane’s south-west to support new rail link
By David Goeldner | June 8, 2010
The Queensland Government has committed Budget funding for a ‘special new bus service’ for commuters in Brisbane’s south-west to support a new $646 million rail-link project.
The 10km rail line to the new satellite urban hub of Springfield is expected to be up and running by 2013, two years ahead of schedule, according to Premier Anna Bligh.
The first stage of the project will finish in 2011 with a new station at Richlands and space for 650 cars.
Although buses to feed the rail stations are promised, a spokesperson for Transport Minister Rachel Nolan says tenders for the ‘special new bus service’ haven’t yet been considered.
“It’s too early to speculate which bus operator will service the new rail facilities at Richlands and Springfield,” the Minister’s office says.
“It will be sorted out in time in the normal fashion.
“The Minister’s focus is getting the rail link right first.”
The 2010/11 State Budget includes $104 million to complete the new branch rail line from Darra to Richlands, which is already under construction.
The rail line extension from Richlands to Springfield – home to 18,000 residents and a university campus – is yet to start.