REAL-TIME BUS INFORMATION A REALITY

The ACT Government’s initiative of $6.76 million for the introduction of Real Time Passenger Information system for Canberra’s ACTION bus network will allow people to know exactly when their buses will be arriving.

Planning Minister Simon Corbell said today that the system would monitor the location of all ACTION buses, allowing passengers to get information when the next bus is due through electronic and LCD display screens at bus stops and interchanges.

“This measure has been proven to increase patronage on routes by up to 20 per cent,” he said.  

“Real time information systems use a variety of technologies to track the location of buses and provide accurate bus arrival times at interchanges and stops along route.

“The system will also interface with Canberra’s traffic lights, allowing priority to buses when required to better ensure on-time running.”

Mr Corbell said the provision of real time information was a further demonstration that the Government was fulfilling its election commitment to implement the Sustainable Transport Plan.

“Real Time Information will boost the effectiveness of associated projects under the transport plan such as the Belconnen to City busway, but also enhance our public transport network while these projects are realised.

“It is anticipated that real time information will improve passenger knowledge and therefore their ability to use the network, and will also increase new and infrequent use of public transport.

“This project meets the Government’s objective of reliable, efficient and sustainable transport, therefore avoiding the need for road solutions for traffic problems.

“Increased use of public transport is linked to the reliability of services.  Real time information will ensure passengers accurately know when their bus is due to arrive, building confidence that ACTION services can be relied upon.”

Real time information has been implemented in cities including Auckland, Christchurch, Brisbane and Adelaide, which report improved patronage of between 10 and 30 per cent.
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