Lucas urges patience for drivers and public transport users

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Paul Lucas tonight urged motorists and public transport passengers to be patient during tomorrow’s morning and afternoon peak hours.

Mr Lucas said there would be substantial disruption to traffic following the closure of sections of the Riverside Expressway, various onramps and North Quay after the discovery today of a crack in the decking of the Ann St onramp.

“I want to apologise for the disruption this closure caused tonight, and the disruption it will cause tomorrow,” Mr Lucas said.

The sections of road were closed this afternoon following the discovery of a hairline crack around 0.4mm wide and approximately 2m long in the bridge decking.

“I’d like to again make it clear that this is a precautionary closure.

“Main Roads has advised that there is an extremely low chance of the Ann St onramp collapsing but I don’t want to take any chances whatsoever.”

Mr Lucas said Main Roads and Queensland Transport had put in place a number of measures to help ease traffic pressure on the CBD.

“Main Roads removed the toll for vehicles using the GatewayBridge during peak hour this evening, and there will be no tolls on the bridge between 6am to 10am, and 4pm to 7pm while the diversions are in place.

“General traffic will also be permitted to use bus lanes and T2 and T3 transit lanes but this does not include the dedicated South East and Inner Northern busways.

“Despite these measures, there will still be major disruptions.”

Mr Lucas said there were a number of things motorists and public transport users could do to avoid some of the problems and potentially help ease traffic congestion.

“I urge people to consider taking public transport into the city where possible,” Mr Lucas said.

“And think about catching an earlier bus or train if you can. Or if possible, come into work after peak hour. Keep that in mind for the afternoon and evening as well.”

Mr Lucas said TransLink was working with Queensland Rail and Brisbane Transport overnight to see what extra services could be put in place during peak hour tomorrow, though the majority of available buses and trains were already in use.”

Operator-specific tickets (eg bus and ferry Ten Trip Savers, Queensland Rail 3, 6 and 12 month passes) will be accepted on all TransLink bus, train and ferry services.

Mr Lucas said people who had to drive into the city should also consider staggering their travel times to and from work.

“I’d also encourage motorists to car-pool where possible and avoid parking on city streets as clearways and other arrangements are being re-assessed by Main Roads and Brisbane City Council.”

Mr Lucas also encouraged businesses to be patient with employees who experienced difficulties in getting to work on time or have to change their travel patterns.

“I hope motorists can be courteous to other drivers under what will be trying conditions,” Mr Lucas said.

“I also encourage public transport users to be understanding of any delays or inconveniences they may suffer.

“People can make a difference here and I encourage everyone to play their part.”

Mr Lucas said regular updates would be provided during the day regarding traffic and public transport information.

For public transport information visit the TransLink website www.translink.com.au or call them on 13 12 30.

Information on traffic diversions is available on the Main Roads website www.mainroads.qld.gov.au and on 13 19 40.

Media inquiries: Robert Hoge 3237 1942, 0419 757 868