The ACT Government is continuing to make it easier to get around Canberra by delivering an integrated public transport network and better road infrastructure, as part of the state budget that was released on June 6
New investments include updated ticketing technology; stage two of the light rail network from the City to Woden, new Rapid Bus routes and bus priority infrastructure.
The 2017-18 ACT Budget invests more than $127.3 million in better transport and infrastructure across Canberra, with the aim of creating jobs in construction, reducing congestion and connecting people.
“We want to improve Canberra’s public transport system by providing better services when Canberrans need them,” Minister for Transport Canberra and City Services Meegan Fitzharris says.
“The latest public transport ticketing technology is moving away from stored value cards towards new forms of payment, including contactless credit and debit bank cards and mobile phone payments.
“The funding in this budget will enable us to seek out a modern and convenient option for locals and tourists.
“This year will see not only the expansion of the Blue Rapid link from Kippax to Lanyon Market Place, but also a new Green Rapid from Woden to the City via Manuka and Barton and a Black Rapid from Belconnen to Gungahlin
“To encourage people to try out these new services, we are providing $150,000 in the 2017-18 budget to let passengers ride for free for the first two months of service on both the Green and Black Rapids.”
Specific commitments include $53.5 million for the second stage of light rail between the Canberra CBD and Woden; $7 millionfor free travel on two new Rapid Bus routes, $2.1 million to progress procurement of integrated bus and light rail ticketing and investment in ticket machines; $1.7 million for faster bus travel though bus priority infrastructure, bus service improvements and new bus stops.
An additional $8.3 million will be spent over the next four years in community transport through the Community Transport Coordination Centre, incorporating the Flexible Bus Service and special needs transport.