Light Rail Investigation..

I think the idea of a light rail would be an interesting concept to look into, where the proposal for the sunshine coast could potentially be taken to Canberra. The idea for the sunshine coast is that the rail runs elevated, mostly along the median strips in between both lanes of the road.  This is to encourage growth underneath and retain the beauty of the area, while effectively connecting the coastal towns of the coast. Something like this could be used in Canberra where is could possibly connect all tourist attractions or parliamentary buildings, so when people do come for a holiday or day trip, they can jump on the train and not worry about a thing. Maybe this network could connect out to the suburbs which would then allow a more effective way of getting to and from work, and even be part of a major transit centre that creates improved accessibility in and out of the ACT. The following link is to a PDF that was created by the designer of the sunshine coast proposal and features all kinds of valuable information like aims, population issues, transportation and sustainability.

 

These were the main concepts/facts I took from the Sunshine Coast proposal, which seem most appropriate to potentially apply to Canberra:

·        TOD’s- transit orientated development: activity centres no more than 400m in diameter (5 min walk). Each TOD would comprise a central open space plaza for pedestrians surrounded by mixed use of commercial, retail, alfresco dining and residential developments. These could be positioned around each light rail stop to make up a series of smaller ‘activity nodes’ to promote a more user friendly environment across the whole of Canberra and bring people into the area.

·        Light rail moves passengers in short trains at less than 8 minute intervals either in a median strip or shared zone area with street traffic. It is a more suitable public transport method as it can service areas that are already developed. As much of Canberra is either developed or parks, the system could be integrated into the medium strips on main roads or as an extra lane on smaller roads.

·        Light rail produces no pollution to the immediate atmosphere, reducing smog and improving air quality in built up areas.

·        The proposed cost for the sunshine coast light rail is $1.5-$2 billion.

·        The light rail will accommodate population growth through TOD’s in the next 20 years. With the population in the ACT predicted to rise by 50,000 in the next 20 years, the idea of condensing the centres will be a more sustainable option than continuing to expand over land that can be used for agricultural purposes. There is also a predicted rise a in the ageing population so there is a need for a more accessible public transport network in Canberra.

·        Like the situation on the Sunshine coast, there is a need to integrate all forms of transport as a network- both public and private. This could include the airport, marinas, bus ways, cycle ways, railway, park and ride facilities, to provide greater connectivity and a more accessible capital.

·        Light rail infrastructure generates much greater passenger numbers than most bus based systems and integration with all other modes of transport is key. Better transport infrastructure creates significant growth in people using public transport, which will mean less people are using cars, which is better for the environment.

·        The elevated system:
-  Ease of construction as most elements can be pre cast and  installed on site.
- Views are created of town and makes for a more scenic/tourist trip.
- No conflict between traffic lights, pedestrians and other modes of transport.
- Lower running costs as the vehicles can be fully automated.
- Allows integration with power lines and lamp posts to offer opportunities of beautification.
- Lower risk of accidents- faster speed.

LINK TO PDF OF PROPOSAL:
http://www.mysunshinecoast.com.au/i/bm/oid39436/doc/110808_Sunshine%20Coast%20Light%20Rail%20Proposal.pdf