Grants to boost access to public transport

New bus shelters, lighting and kerbside upgrades will make accessing public transport even easier in the region, with local community groups now able to apply for a share of $3.2 million from the Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants scheme.

Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said applications are now open for the biennial grants, which build upon the NSW Government’s vision to help make public transport a first-choice option for locals.

“I know what a difference projects like these make to locals, so I’m calling on local councils, transport operators, schools and community organisations to apply for the grants,” Mr Saunders said.

“Successful applicants will be eligible for $11,500 for each new bus shelter, and $2,500 for each shelter they want to upgrade to meet modern accessibility standards.

“Previously through this scheme we have given funding to Dubbo Regional Council to upgrade some shelters, and out at Trangie we have paid for the construction of a shelter at the central school.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said more than $2.1 million went towards 500 projects across 40 local government areas on things like new and upgraded bus shelters, security lighting, new bus stop seats, timetable information boards and tactile indicators in the previous round of funding. 

“Some of these might sound like small projects, but they have been absolute game changers because when locals access public transport in the regions, it’s not just about getting from A to B – it can also be the difference between the ease of getting to important medical appointments, getting groceries, and staying connected to family and friends in other towns,” Mr Toole said.

“Programs like this boost access to services for all residents because all projects are required to meet the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.”  

Applications will close on 30 September this year, with the successful applicants informed in early 2022.

For more information on the program, visit: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/operations/community-transport-operators/country-passenger-transport-infrastructure-grants-scheme

1 thought on “Grants to boost access to public transport”

  1. For the last six years I have been negotiating with Dubbo Regional Council with regards to theLocal Bus company Dubbo Bus Coachlines for better bus stops in Darling Street Between Cobra and Bishop Streets.

    As I now get around using a wheelie walker I need the bus to come into the kerb and guttering so that I can either get on or alight from the bus.
    The hail and ride service that the Dubbo Bus and Coachlines for this particular section is unreal the amount of cars that are parked in this area, you have to find a different spot every time you want to get a bus either to the CBD or Orana Mall
    The trees are also a problem with the buses as well they need to be manicured.
    The other area is in Macquarie Street between the intersection of Bligh, Reakes and Cobra Street. The western side of Macquarie Street I cannot use as there is no kerb an guttering at all. Council has proposed in building a proper bus shelter and kerb and guttering but when I do not know
    The following information is provided in reference to your submission:
    Throughout the Dubbo urban area, Dubbo Buslines provides the commercial bus service
    that operates as a hail and ride service along the road network. Council investigated options
    available and prepared a report for the Local Traffic Committee, but Council received an
    objection to the proposed bus location. Council staff decided to withdraw the report for
    further consultation and investigation. Council will continue to investigate suitable options
    for bus stops in the region.
    Council thanks you for your interest in the 2021/2022 Delivery Program and Operational Plan,
    Budget and Associated Documents. Should you have any queries regarding this matter, please
    contact Council’s Growth Planner, Tim Howlett, on (02) 6801 4000 during normal office hours.
    Yours faithfully
    Murray Wood
    Chief Executive Officer

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