A bus rapid transit study has started in Canberra, targeting Northbourne Avenue linking Gungahlin and Civic
March 14, 2011
A bus rapid transit system (BRT) is proposed for Canberra among measures to upgrade the CBD’s main northern arterial road, Northbourne Avenue.
ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope announced a study on Friday to identify upgrades and improvements to the Northbourne Avenue corridor, including bus priority, cycle lanes and pedestrian access.
“Currently more than 50,000 people travel on Northbourne Avenue daily and this is increasing with the growth of Gungahlin,” Stanhope says.
“This project will identify options for making this travel more efficient, while ensuring the boulevard landscape characteristics of this major entry to the national capital are properly considered.”
He says the Northbourne Avenue corridor has the potential to be a nationally significant showcase for transit-oriented development.
“We also recognise its role as a major approach route into the national capital and as such we are working closely with the National Capital Authority on this project.”
Consulting firm URS has been appointed to conduct the study, which will cover the section of Northbourne Avenue from Flemington Road to the City.
Also included in the study is an investigation of a bus station in Dickson to increase the uptake of public transport.
Stanhope says URS would work closely with the National Capital Authority to identify the nationally significant characteristics of the corridor.
He says the study will protect and enhance these characteristics while delivering improved reliability, more efficient bus services and a dedicated cycling route.
“The study is due for completion in the third quarter of this year and will involve targeted consultation with community representatives, community councils and key interest groups,” says Stanhope.
“This consultation will kick off in coming weeks with a workshop looking at the constraints and opportunities that exist within the corridor.”