Bardon residents are among those set to benefit from a major overhaul of Brisbane’s bus network. Changes to dozens of routes promise faster, more frequent, and less crowded services.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner announced an ambitious plan to improve connectivity across the city and ease traffic congestion. The changes, developed after extensive community consultation and data analysis, will see five new routes introduced and many existing routes altered.
Key Changes Include
Five new routes: These will connect key destinations like Upper Mount Gravatt, RBWH, Indooroopilly, Fairfield Gardens, and South Brisbane, focusing on improving access to hospitals, universities, and shopping centres. A new peak-hour service will also run along Ipswich Road from Acacia Ridge.
Improved suburban connections: The new network will make it easier for residents in suburbs like Bardon to reach popular destinations such as Mount Gravatt Plaza, Fairfield Gardens, and Greenslopes Hospital.
Faster and more frequent services: The council claims 85 per cent of routes will be faster or maintain similar travel times during peak periods, with an extra 160,000 services added annually.
Integration with Brisbane Metro: The bus network changes are designed to complement the new Brisbane Metro, with many routes connecting to Metro stations. This will allow for smoother transfers and more efficient travel across the city.
Restructuring Existing Routes
Splitting cross-city routes: Routes 375, 379, and 470, which travel between the western and northern suburbs, will be split into two.
Discontinuation of underutilised routes: Due to low passenger numbers, Routes 28, 145, and P151 will be discontinued.
Merging routes: Route pairs 124/125, 174/175, and 184/185 will be merged to optimise service delivery.
Changes to City Services
Increased transfers: Some routes, such as the 110 from Inala and the 113 from Mount Gravatt Central, will terminate at the PA Hospital busway stop, requiring passengers to transfer for city-bound journeys.
Reduced congestion on Victoria Bridge: Fewer buses will travel over the Victoria Bridge to alleviate congestion at the Cultural Centre.
Relocation of CBD bus stops: Several peak-hour services will be rerouted along Elizabeth Street, Edward Street, and Alice Street in both directions.
The new bus network is expected to be rolled out in conjunction with the launch of the Brisbane Metro services. Lord Mayor Schrinner wanted to collaborate with the new state government to finalise the implementation timeline.
This comprehensive overhaul of Brisbane’s bus network aims to provide a more efficient, reliable, and accessible public transport system for residents across the city, including those in Bardon.
While some adjustments may be required for commuters, the council believes the long-term benefits will significantly improve the travel experience for most passengers.
Published Date 30-October-2024