No more Delays
The business case for Rapid Transit has finally been released, but the Government must not wait for Federal Government investment to take action on public transport.
Many of the options considered could be introduced now to address the issues commuters are facing right now – to bust congestion, address greenhouse gas emissions and to increase the number of people using public transport.
The government must start now with increased investment in public transport to provide the best value for money.
Improvements to the existing bus network such as priority transit lanes on existing corridors and improved services can be delivered without waiting for major investment. These connections are already at capacity, and simple policy measures would reduce congestion, delays and carbon emissions.
Any future Rapid Transit project should not rule out the possibility of Light Rail in the future, which remains the gold standard solution for generating city-shaping benefits and transit-oriented development. The rail corridor is something that must be maintained for the future.
While the release of the business case is welcome, I have concerns over the ability of this Government to deliver a project of this scale, which will require collaboration across all layers of government and all departments. It will require a strategic approach to transport and land use that has been sorely lacking in many other major projects.
The Government has dragged its heels on public transport and the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor for far too long. Activation of the corridor is already behind schedule, and people in Hobart and Glenorchy have seen enough concept designs and transit centres come and go.
There is the possibility for Rapid Buses to transform Greater Hobart for the better – but it will require political will and urgent action. A commitment to recognise the needs of the population, to address greenhouse gas emissions and the bugbear of traveling across Hobart at peak hour – congestion – cannot be delayed any further.