Melbourne residents have spoken, and their message is clear: they want an airport rail link and better bus services before any other major projects. A recent survey shows that these transportation improvements are top priorities for the city’s people. With growing support, it’s evident that Melburnians are looking for practical solutions to meet their daily commuting needs.
Survey Shows Clear Preferences
A survey of 1,000 Melbourne residents reveals that 72% support a rail link to the airport, while 66% advocate for improved bus services. These priorities rank higher than the state government’s four major infrastructure projects.
Preferred Infrastructure Projects
- Airport Rail Link: 72% support
- Bus Network Reform: 66% support
- Metro Tunnel: 59% support
- West Gate Tunnel: 59% support
- Suburban Rail Loop: 58% support
- North East Link: 50% support
Residents’ Wish List
Melburnians express a strong desire for an airport rail link and enhanced bus services before the $34 billion Suburban Rail Loop. The survey indicates that these projects take precedence over other significant infrastructure developments.
Committee for Melbourne
The Committee for Melbourne, a non-political organization with 150 members from various sectors, conducted the survey. It shows substantial support for airport rail and bus network improvements. Mark Melvin, the CEO, emphasizes the necessity of these projects for the city’s future growth.
Delays and Costs
Premier Jacinta Allan has postponed the airport rail project by at least four years, with completion unlikely before 2033. The project requires an additional $3 billion to meet its $13 billion budget. Initially proposed in 1970, the rail link faces escalating costs.
Bus Reform
Advocates argue that bus reform is the quickest and most cost-effective solution to the state’s transport issues. Last year, Infrastructure Victoria recommended dedicated bus lanes to enhance the network.
Other Major Projects
- Metro Tunnel: An underground rail link connecting inner Melbourne stations, set to open in 2025.
- West Gate Tunnel: Connecting the West Gate Freeway to CityLink, expected to open next year.
- Suburban Rail Loop: Described as a “money-sink,” construction has begun on the first stage, with completion aimed for 2035.
- North East Link: Victoria’s most expensive road project, with twin tunnels connecting Watsonia to Bulleen, set to open in 2028.
Expert Opinions
Urban planning expert Crystal Legacy suggests that fundamental gains in public transport could be achieved without massive infrastructure investments. She emphasizes the importance of bus reform, citing its feasibility and immediate impact.
Bus Network Utilization
Currently, only 2% of journeys in Melbourne are made by bus, with just 52 kilometers of bus lanes in the city. Melvin believes there is significant potential to optimize the bus network for greater efficiency and utilization.
Government’s Response
A Victorian government spokesperson stated that there is a record investment in road and rail infrastructure. Despite delays, the government remains committed to building a rail line to the airport by 2029.
