The ACT Government will upgrade or build 80 bus stops this year, which they say will make public transport more accessible. 

Upgrades include adjustments to bus stop concrete waiting areas, connecting paths to facilitate wheelchair access, and installing tactile ground surface indicators to assist the visually impaired. Last year, more than 70 bus stops were upgraded.

“By improving the accessibility of local bus stops, we’re making it easier for everyone to move around our city, including older Canberrans, carers, and people living with a disability,” said Chris Steel, ACT Minister for Transport and City Services. 

“For people to choose public transport as a regular mode of travel, it has to be convenient, reliable, comfortable and safe.”

The major stop on the corner of Haydon Drive and College Street in Belconnen was recently upgraded – one of four bus stops upgraded along Haydon Drive in the past year.

A new 11.5 metre shelter was installed, replacing a small bunker shelter. In addition, Mr Steel said, new tactile surfaces and a concrete pad provide better access for Canberrans with a disability.

Two new stops were established in Whitlam, to complement the new Route 47, which connects Belconnen and Denman Prospect. 

“We are working to ensure people have greater choice in how and when they travel, and can move seamlessly between modes regardless of where they live or their diverse needs,” Mr Steel said.

Last week, Mr Steel announced that every bus in the ACT fleet would be a low-floor, accessible bus by the end of this year. The remaining 34 DDA non-compliant Renault orange buses are being retired, as part of the transition to a zero emissions and fully accessible transport fleet.

“All these investments mean Canberrans will able to enjoy a smoother, quieter, and more comfortable journey when they get on board public transport,” Mr Steel said.

The Council on the Ageing (COTA) ACT has warmly received this news.

“It is very good to hear the ACT government considering the vital part public transport plays in the lives of many senior Canberrans, especially when more than one quarter of our community is an older person,” said CEO Jenny Mobbs.

For more information on this project and to keep updated, visit www.transport.act.gov.au.