The Rockliff Liberal Government is taking action to improve public transport options for Tasmanians.
Not only does the Macquarie Point precinct present an unprecedented opportunity to convert a previously underutilised site into one that will have economic and social benefits for our entire State for decades to come, but it is critical in opening up vital transport corridors.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, said as our population grows and the precinct attracts Tasmanians wanting come together to experience the site's attractions, providing this next-level transport network is critical to ensure public transport patronage flourishes and our beautiful capital city maintains its enviable lifestyle offering to residents and tourists.
"The work already underway is extensive – the new Bridgewater Bridge, augmentation of the Tasman Bridge, the upgrade of the Tasman Highway from the Hobart Airport to the city, Davey and Macquarie Street upgrades, new park and ride facilities, the fifth lane on the Southern Outlet, and a boost in the number of bus services, Mr Ferguson said.
"In addition, the urban renewal development that the Macquarie Point precinct unlocks will see the development of the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor including a bus-rapid-transit service and the development of a Hobart Transit Centre.
"Appropriate parking and ensuring easy access to the precinct will be critical parts of our design – we want our city to be more walkable as well, with increased ferry access to our waterfront.
"The popularity of the ferry service continues to grow with 110 000 passengers in its first year of operation. Such is its success, we have committed to expanding its operational reach which works perfectly with how we plan to expand access to our waterfront and Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Project.
"Last year's Budget included nearly $19 million over four years to lock in the Bellerive to Hobart service as well as the construction of a floating pontoon at Bellerive and infrastructure to further improve the passenger experience and provide more shelter.
"The fact is, the ferry is such a winner that we announced last year we would expand the service to other locations along the river under a Derwent Ferry Masterplan.
"We will work closely with the Australian Government which has committed $20 million for infrastructure to further support ferry services, as well as Greater Hobart Councils as we press on with our Masterplan.
"Under the Masterplan, 33 proposed sites will be assessed on a range of factors including the establishment of passenger demand, the potential to remove pressure on our road network, and the suitability of ferry terminal infrastructure and berthing.
"We will also work in partnership with our local and national counterparts to develop a new integrated Bus Rapid Transit Network, with rapid buses to service our major growth corridors, allowing people to move around quickly and comfortably.
"Rapid buses are the preferred mode for the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor, from Glenorchy to the City, while a new Bus Transit Centre will be built in Hobart close to both Macquarie Point and the city centre.
"Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a high-quality bus-based transport system that delivers fast, comfortable, and cost-effective services at higher capacities than normal bus services.
"It does this through a combination of dedicated infrastructure, such as lane and stations, and fast and frequent operations.
"Combined with investment in active transport corridors to provide more direct and safe links from Hobart's suburbs to the city, and it is clear our renewed and revitalised transport network will deliver the extra capacity and attractive options to get people to and from the exciting Macquarie Point precinct."
