Canberra drivers will soon be able to check traffic conditions in real time, with the installation of new technology to help manage traffic disruptions.
Announcing the move, Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said construction of the light rail to Woden and the raising of London Circuit would be disruptive for the traffic network and impact how Canberrans accessed the city centre.
“That’s why we’re investing in new technology that will help the Government and commuters to manage the impact of disruption on our roads through active and real-time management of our traffic network,” Mr Barr said.
“Government will install intelligent transport monitoring technology in strategic locations across central Canberra where disruption and congestion are likely,” he said.
“This will include new intersection cameras and Bluetooth sensors capable of feeding traffic insights back to the central Traffic Operations Centre at Fyshwick.”
Mr Barr said data from these devices would be used to provide up-to-date information about journey times and potential disruption through wireless variable message signage on ACT roads, via radio and social media.
The Chief Minister said active monitoring of the network would also mean a faster response to accidents or issues before they caused major congestion.
Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel said providing reliable information in real time would allow commuters to make informed choices before or during their trip.
“This might mean choosing a different route, travelling at a different time or jumping on public transport,” Mr Steel said.
He said a new park-and-ride facility at Beasley St Mawson would also be delivered to help people on the southside easily connect with public transport and avoid congestion.
“Seventy existing car parks will be converted to park-and-ride spaces, and construction is now underway on a new footpath link to the Rapid routes on Athllon Drive, with lighting being installed to improve safety.”
“The connecting path and lighting infrastructure will support better public transport access for all users of Mawson Playing Fields on weekdays, after hours and on the weekend,” Mr Steel said.
