Study shows value in bus lanes

ACT Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services Katy Gallagher, today released an independent study which shows that dedicated bus lanes play a key role in reducing congestion on Canberra roads.

The report by AECOM follows their extensive study of existing and potential bus and transit lanes (T2 and T3) sites across Canberra.

"The ACT Government is committed to creating a safer, more efficient transport network which is developed through evidenced-based decision making," the Chief Minister said.

The study looked at the transport links on the frequent bus network and provides a valuable assessment of the suitability of bus or transit lanes. It took into account the number of lanes on each road and the number of occupants in vehicles using each lane.

The study reveals there is a strong case for a new bus lane which will be built on Barry Drive as part of the Belconnen to City Transitway which is expected to commence in the coming weeks.

"Surveys undertaken during the morning peak period along Barry Drive, show that 1800 people were being moved in 31 buses along the corridor between 7.45 am and 9.15 am. This made up around 25% of all people travelling during that period, with that figure expected to increase over time.

"What the AECOM review found is that the installation of a T2 lane would reduce the average speed of a bus, thus reducing its attractiveness as a transport option, which potentially could lead to more cars on the road, not less," the Chief Minister said.

The report recommends the development of guidelines for the appropriate location and uses for transit and bus lanes across the Territory which take into consideration factors such as traffic safety, congestion and transport sustainability.

"The report shows that it is too simplistic for people to look at a bus lane and say it looks empty, when in actual fact it carries a significant proportion of people - and in quicker time than adjacent traffic lanes.

"For example, on Adelaide Avenue, the report found that the T2 lane provides less than a 15 second benefit to motorists in peak periods.

"The report also confirmed there were potential issues with drivers merging in and out of the Adelaide Avenue transit lane and additional safety measures which will need to be investigated," the Chief Minister said

The ACT Government is currently undertaking planning work on freeway-style bus stop locations on Adelaide Avenue between Deakin and Curtin and that this would impact on its future status as a transit lane.

"The report found that bus and transit lanes should generally be restricted to the heavier used bus corridors. It concluded that roads with three lanes could be considered for transit lanes, but that in general two lane corridors such as Canberra Avenue need an additional lane if they are to cater for bus or transit lanes.

"The study reveals there is a strong case for the new bus lane which will be built on Barry Drive as part of the Belconnen to City Transitway project expected to commence in coming weeks," the Chief Minister said.

The Chief Minister said the ACT Government is currently running a tender process to design an additional lane on a 2.3 kilometre citybound section of Canberra Avenue between the Hindmarsh Drive intersection (near DFO) and Hume Circle to cater for buses and potentially high occupant vehicles.

"The ACT Government is focused on reducing commuting time across Canberra, and the AECOM report will help to develop appropriate guidelines for bus and transit lanes that improve the safety, reduce congestion and ensure our transport options deliver sustainable transport options across the city," the Chief Minister concluded.

The guidelines for appropriate location and uses for transit and bus lanes are expected to be completed in May this year.

The report can be found on www.tams.act.gov.au