**The proposed construction of a bus rapid transit route has sparked a heated discussion on transport reform in Melbourne. Victoria's infrastructure consultants believe bus rapid transit routes are the quickest and most economical way to solve Melbourne's transport problems, according to The AGE. Although most residents live within 400 metres of a bus stop, more than a third of Melbians have never taken a bus. This is mainly due to the infrequent bus service, slow and complex routes, and limited operating hours, which have led to the fact that buses have been unpopular.
In contrast, cities such as Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide have adopted bus rapid transit systems, offering train-like services, with fast, frequent buses running in dedicated lanes and stopping at sheltered stations. To address the issue of Melbourne's bus network, Infrastructure Victoria, an agency affiliated with the state, has proposed to build a bus rapid transit network serving the middle and outer suburbs, with construction to begin in 2028.
The aim of this proposal is to attract an additional 164,000 bus riders per day and reduce the number of vehicles on the road by 63,000 to improve traffic flow. The report notes that the construction of public transport infrastructure is less expensive and the time requirements are shorter. The report also calls for an increase in the frequency of suburban bus schedules and a re-routing of existing routes to make them faster and more direct. At the same time, the report recommends a reduction in bus fares**, as surveys have shown that a $1 reduction in fares can increase ridership by 19%.
Research by Infrastructure Victoria shows that Melbourne can attract more riders and bring significant economic returns to the city by building a bus rapid transit network. The bureau modelled 10 possible BRT routes, some of which would follow unbuilt rail line corridors, such as the link between Epping and Wollert, and others would be built on existing roads. The network is expected to cost around $3.5 billion to $4 billion to build and will attract 83,100 passengers per day in 2036, bringing $2 per $1 invested$60 in earnings.
This proposal has sparked discussion among all sectors of society. Victoria** welcomed the Victorian Infrastructure Agency's study and said it would introduce new, more direct bus routes. The mayor of Hume Council believes that residents in Melbourne's north need more frequent and accessible bus services due to the lack of reliable public transport that either causes congestion by driving or is disconnected from education and services.
This advice has had an important impact on Melbourne's transport and society. If a bus rapid transit network is built, it will help reduce the number of cars on the road, reduce traffic congestion, reduce tailpipe emissions, and improve the urban environment. In addition, BRT will provide Melbourne citizens with a more convenient and fast way to get around, as well as more opportunities for employment, education and services.
As for whether there is an update on the development, there are no relevant reports mentioning it at present. However, the positive response to the proposal, as well as the Victorian Infrastructure Authority's research report, shows a determination and desire to improve Melbourne's transport problems.
Melbourne** put forward a proposal to build a bus rapid transit route, which sparked a wide discussion in the society. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is expected to improve Melbourne's transport problems, reduce the use of private cars, improve the urban environment, and provide citizens with more convenient travel options. However, the specific construction plan and progress need further attention and research.
Interactive elements of the article: Do you support the construction of a bus rapid transit network in Melbourne?How much do you think this will help solve Melbourne's traffic problems?Please leave a comment to discuss.