Greater Hobart’s four mayors have revealed they would like to see more transport funding in the state budget to be unveiled by the government today.
With the region home to 40% of Tasmania’s population, the mayors say residents deserve better public transport, especially with current usage sitting at 6.9%.
Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey is leading the call for the state government to fast-track funding for rapid buses to the northern suburbs, using the long-unused rail corridor.
“This is greater Hobart’s biggest infill development project,” she said. “It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve housing supply and diversity.”
“The project has been touted for many years but we need to see a specific commitment from the state government to get this progressing in a meaningful way.”
Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley wants to see action on the ageing Tasman Bridge, starting with planning for its eventual replacement or duplication.
“There is now a practical need to prepare for greater Hobart’s growth by commencing studies into a long-term solution,” he said.
“Recent decisions by the state government have again highlighted the inherent structural issues with the bridge, its ageing condition and its capacity constraints.”
He pointed to the decades it has taken to get the new Bridgewater Bridge, set to open to traffic on Monday, from concept to construction.
“It’s now time to start planning for what comes next for the Tasman Bridge and we urge the state government to lead on this important issue,” Blomeley said.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds is pushing for more frequent Metro bus services and expanded ferry options on the River Derwent, while Kingborough Mayor Paula Wriedt is calling for better infrastructure to support active transport and cycling.
“We’d like to continue to work together to reset transport strategy and ensure we’re funding and delivering the right projects for greater Hobart’s future,” Wriedt said.
