Brisbane’s 50¢ flat public transport fares, recently made permanent, have led to a surge in ridership, highlighting the opportunity to decrease traffic congestion and fares by encouraging multi-modal commuting in directly affected suburbs like Graceville, Oxley, and Sherwood.
While numerous bicycle parking spots exist at public transport sites, challenges with security and accessibility hinder wider adoption. As World Car-Free Day is observed on 22 September, cyclists and advocates push for improvements to encourage multi-modal commuting.
Cycling for a Smoother Commute
For commuters like Travis Bassett, cycling to the train station isn’t just about saving time; it’s a healthier, less stressful start to the day. Bassett’s six-minute bike ride to Graceville station is faster than driving, finding parking, and walking. He also enjoys the exercise, while residents near the station appreciate one less car on their streets.
However, the lack of secure and easily accessible bike parking at some stations can be a deterrent. Bassett prefers the route to Sherwood station but opts for Graceville due to its bike lockers, even though Sherwood has exposed bike racks. He recounts his difficulties after losing his bike locker key, emphasising the need for a streamlined process.
The Park ‘n’ Ride Paradox
Some stations, like Oxley, boast excellent active transport facilities with large bike cages and undercover racks; others fall short. This disparity in bike parking options further discourages potential cyclists from choosing this mode of transport to reach public transport hubs.
While the Queensland government has invested millions in park ‘n’ ride facilities, these often fill up quickly, leading to overflow parking in nearby streets. The high cost per car space and free parking further contribute to congestion. In contrast, upgrading bike parking facilities could provide a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Secure, Accessible Bike Parking a Priority
A new state government strategy addresses these issues by prioritising secure, weatherproof, and easily accessible bike parking. Advocates such as Chris Cox contend that further action is necessary. They point to other Australian cities where cyclists can access bike parking with their public transport card, removing another barrier to multi-modal travel.
World Car-Free Day: A Chance for Change
With World Car-Free Day on the horizon, there’s no better time to rethink our commuting habits. By improving bike parking facilities and promoting cycling as a viable option, Brisbane can significantly reduce congestion and create a more sustainable transport system.
Published Date 19-September-2024
