BIKES ON BUSES TRIAL READY TO ROLL NEXT MONTH

More than 100 locals will take part in a statewide-first trial, as Wagga Wagga becomes the first city in NSW to have bike racks fitted to buses next month.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the trial will see bike racks fitted onto buses on select routes, allowing users to combine a bike ride with a bus trip.

“This trial will boost access and connectivity across the city, making it easier for cyclists to connect with public transport as part of their daily commute, whether it be travelling to work, uni or just going to the shops,” Mr Toole said.

“We’ve had an incredibly positive response since we asked the community for feedback to help shape the trial, with more than 400 people responding to the survey, telling us things like preferred routes for the racks to be installed.

“From next month, we’re aiming to see bike racks installed on buses for the first time, building on our vision for a safer, stronger public transport offering across regional centres like Wagga.”

Member for Wagga Wagga Joe McGirr said the trial will involve buses on route 960, which travels from Lake Albert in the city’s south, through to the CBD, Estella and Charles Sturt University in the north.

“Cyclists will simply have to secure their bike to the rack located on the front of the bus before jumping on board,” Mr McGirr said.

“To help things run smoothly, we’ve made a practise rack available for anyone to try at the visitor Information Centre on Tarcutta Street.”

Member of the Legislative Council Wes Fang said while anyone can use the bike racks, 100 participants have registered to fill out a travel diary, which will be used to provide feedback on the service.

“We know that installing bike racks on buses has been a success in the ACT and we’re excited to see our first trial in Wagga Wagga,” Mr Fang said.

“Cycling is a healthy way to get around and being able to connect with a local bus service for part of your trip will make getting to some locations just that bit easier.”

If successful, further trials may be rolled out across other regional centres. For more information, visit https://transportnsw.info/news/2021/bikes-on-buses-in-bush-trial