Victoria’s first trial of bike racks on buses will begin in March next year. Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan announced the initiative at the launch of the Integrated Transport and Land Use strategy in Bendigo today.
The one year trial will see bike racks fitted to the front of 15 buses operating on Bendigo Route 16, Routes 510 and 512 in Moreland, and the Cowes to Wonthaggi service.
The bike racks, each capable of carrying two bikes, will enable passengers to ride to their local bus stop and take it with them on their journey.
The trial is aimed at alleviating congestion on local roads and providing an environmentally friendly transport option for Victorians.
Bikes will be secured to the racks by spring-loaded clamps. A brochure with instructions on using the bike racks will be made available to customers and online.
At the end of the trial a full assessment of the impact on service including patronage, performance and customer satisfaction will be carried out.
The trial is a joint initiative of the Bus Association of Victoria, VicRoads and Public Transport Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“Combining a bike ride with your bus trip is an easy, environmentally friendly and healthy way to get around, and it will ease congestion on local roads.”
“We heard through local Regional Network Development Plan consultation sessions that people want more opportunities to combine cycling with public transport – that’s exactly what this trial is all about.”
“I congratulate the Bus Association, VicRoads and PTV for working together on this initiative, and I look forward to seeing how the community respond to being able to bike and bus.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020