WITH a city growing to double its population in the next 15 years, the transport system of Ipswich is expanding to meet that demand.
The next big step in this process is 15 bus stops set to be upgraded to improve passenger safety, accessibility and comfort when catching a local bus.
Mayor Teresa Harding said Ipswich City Council had received $476,750 in funding as part of the Queensland Government’s 2023-2024 Passenger Transport Accessible Infrastructure Program to upgrade existing passenger transport facilities to ensure they comply with Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) (1992) requirements.
This funding is matched by Council on a 50/50 basis.
“In coming weeks, we will see the completed upgrades to bus stops across the city owned and maintained by Ipswich City Council,” Cr Harding said.
“Providing more accessible bus stops means people with prams or mobility issues, can access employment, essential services and entertainment more easily.
“We have an above-average younger population, and a lot of students and young adults generally rely on public transport as it provides one of the most affordable means of connection to schools and work.
“Having easy access to public transport can also help to prevent isolation within our communities by offering better connectivity.”
Recently announced new and expanded bus services for Ipswich’s fastest growing suburbs of Redbank Plains, Collingwood Park, Augustine Heights, Bellbird Park, Springfield, Deebing Heights and Karalee, are an important first step in fixing some of the major gaps in Ipswich’s bus network.
“We are a city for all, and I welcome any opportunity to have a better public transport system and these new services coupled with the 50c public transport fares will hopefully see a boost for usage.”
