13/8/01
Geraldton's public transport system is being overhauled with the State Government injecting an extra $130,000 a year into improving the bus service.
Announcing the changes in Geraldton today, the Minister responsible for Public Transport, Michelle Roberts, said the extra $130,000 would boost Government funding up to $400,000 a year, providing the city with a modern public transport system.
Mrs Roberts said the revamped service would be far more convenient, with new direct routes, different timetables and an inner-city shuttle service.
"The new bus service will be a huge improvement for the people of Geraldton who rely heavily on public transport, most particularly the seniors," she said.
"The Government has not only met an important election commitment in increasing seniors' access to public transport, but we have also created a new service for the whole community to enjoy."
Mrs Roberts said the overhaul included increasing the number of bus trips and servicing suburbs that currently had no access to buses.
"The new direct routes replace one-way loop routes, which can necessitate long trips to travel just a short distance," she said.
"The inner-city shuttle service is a big innovation, conveniently linking the major shopping facilities, hospitals and recreational centres."
Mrs Roberts said the new bus service encompassed an important election commitment by the State Government which was to trial a new shuttle service for seniors.
"The good news is that we are going much further than simply trialling the new service - we have introduced it!" she said.
"This Government recognises that public transport needs to cater effectively and efficiently for everyone in the community.
"It was an election commitment to trial a new $100,000 shuttle bus service for seniors and we have moulded the new series of routes and timetables around their needs.
"In the process we have also not only assisted seniors, but have expanded the current public transport services to assist other people in the community."
The bus service revamp also includes a new terminus - one that will be more spacious, easier to access and safer. It will be located in Anzac Terrace, where the City of Geraldton has agreed to provide a shelter.
Mrs Roberts said the new public transport service, which already included a range of new buses, had been introduced following detailed consultation with the Geraldton City and Greenough Shire Councils and the local community.
"However, this is not the end of the Government's public transport plans for Geraldton and we will continue to monitor the bus routes and timetables and adapt them as the city's needs change," she said.
Media contact: Steve Worner on 9213 6600
