Big push to bring better public transport access to people living in regional ACT announced
A million dollar feasibility and design study on improvements to walking, cycling, park and ride and public transport infrastructure in regional Australian Capital Territory (ACT) was announced this week.
The goal is to improve active travel and public transport networks in Woden, Tuggeranong and Belconnen and integrate these with similar plans for Canberra.
“Feasibility studies into how to improve walking and cycling connections in the Tuggeranong, Woden and Belconnen town centres are currently underway,” ACT minister for territory and municipal services Shane Rattenbury says.
“This work will include investigations into improving connections from suburban West Belconnen to Belconnen town centre and the city.
“The feasibility studies will identify options for improving cycling and walking connections and preliminary plans will be prepared.”
The move comes following recommendations from the three town centre master plans recently developed in consultation with the local community and key stakeholder groups.
It became clear that more functional and safe path networks were needed to encourage more people to walk and cycle between key destinations within the town centres and encourage public transport use.
“The study will look at what is needed to improve access to major transport hubs, community services and other areas such as parks and schools.
“The preliminary plans will provide the basis for budget bids for future works that will improve the active travel network to encourage more people in our community to walk and cycle.
“To manage Canberra’s growth, alleviate congestion and protect our liveability, we need to improve our public transport system and enhance active travel opportunities.
“Improving links between active travel and public transport is a key element of the government’s Public Transport Improvement Plan.”
The ACT Government allocated $1.082 million to this project in its 2015-16 budget and further funding commitments are likely to be made next year.