Official opening of Murdoch Park 'n' Ride bus facility

14/12/94

Perth's newest Park 'n' Ride bus facility was officially opened today, providing residents south of the river with a viable alternative to driving their cars into the city.

The Murdoch Park 'n' Ride is located on the Kwinana Freeway near South Street, and cost $2.3 million to build.

It was funded through the Commonwealth's Australian Land Transport Development Fund with assistance from the State Government.

"The State Government is committed to increasing the use of public transport in Perth and this new Park 'n' Ride is another important link in the chain," Transport Minister Eric Charlton said.

"Transperth has been progressively improving its facilities, and Murdoch joins the Palmyra Bus Depot and the Morley Bus Station as recently completed projects.

"If we do not meet the challenge now of designing the best public transport facilities for Perth then future generations will quite rightly criticise us for being short-sighted planners.

"With only seven per cent of all motorised trips being taken on public transport, we still have a long way to go to maximise Perth's public transport system.

"The Murdoch facility is a direct link for public transport users into the city, and has been designed in harmony with the surrounding landscape.  By being attractive and efficient in getting people from their cars on to buses, it will encourage people to bus into the city.

"That reduces traffic congestion and pollution, which is a plus for the whole community."

The Park 'n' Ride has 583 car parking bays, five bays for drivers with disabilities and 42 motorcycle bays, as well as the 'kiss 'n' ride' drop-off point which can take seven vehicles at once.

Cyclists are also catered for with bicycle racks and lockers.  Other features include good lighting, shelters, telephones, drink fountains and ticket vending machines.

Media Contact:  Dean Roberts 321 7333