A state government initiative to provide free bus travel for five weeks has been welcomed by the City of Hobart as a means to encourage greater uptake of public transport.
Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said rising fuel prices could provide a catalyst for more Tasmanians to turn to public transport as a more cost efficient transport option.
“As fuel prices increase, many drivers are looking for ways to save a bit of money,” Cr Reynolds said. “This opportunity is a way to also see if bus travel can be part of your weekly routine.”
As Hobart grows, public transport will play a vital role in accommodating commuters and visitors.
“Along with the other councils of Greater Hobart, we have long advocated for more affordable, accessible, and efficient bus services as part of an integrated public transport network servicing all parts of our city,” Cr Reynolds said.
“It’s predicted that, by 2030, there will an extra 7500 journeys into Hobart’s CBD each day – the majority of which will originate in the neighbouring local government areas of Glenorchy, Kingborough and Clarence.
“One of the goals of the Hobart City Deal is to increase the public transport mode share from 6.8 per cent (2016) to 10 per cent of total trips into and out of Hobart by 2029,” Cr Reynolds said.
“Buses are currently our dominant mode of public transport and anything that incentivises bus travel is welcomed.
“As demand for bus services increases, so does the pressure to improve services, in turn leading to a better and more efficient public transport network.”
