A number of Sunshine Coast communities are set to benefit from new public transport investment in the region.
The Southern Sunshine Coast Public Transport Strategy identified key growth areas and development – including areas of Kawana and Bli Bli.
Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said five bus routes in four growing southern Sunshine Coast locations would be extended or rerouted this year, connecting locals with public transport for the first time.
"Meridan Plains and Bli Bli locals are set to experience new bus services with routes 611 and 612 being expanded from 11 July to service new areas for the first time," Mr Hunt said.
"Providing buses into developing residential areas will mean communities are better connected with key services, including access to the broader public transport network.
"An extension of bus services into rapidly developing Palmview is planned for later this year, providing Harmony Estate residents with access to a bus service for the first time, and supporting future estates to be developed in the planned community.
"Routes 614 and 619 in Maroochydore will also be realigned later this year to provide access into the new City Hall and Council Chambers developments."
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said it was exciting to add new areas into the public transport network.
"We're able to connect the growing region to public transport by capitalising on existing services," Mr Bailey said.
"It goes to show that making small changes can make a big difference in the lives of commuters and will make public transport accessible to many more people."
Mr Hunt said Route 612 (Nambour to Maroochydore via Bli Bli) had been extended further into Bli Bli to complete a circuit of Yandina Bli Bli Rd and Parklakes Drive.
"With new stops along Parklakes Drive, many homes within Parklakes will now be within walking distance of a bus stop for the first time," he said.
"The route from Maroochydore to Sunshine Coast University Hospital (Route 611) will also be extended beyond the hospital into Kawana Forest estate in Meridan Plains.
"This will provide access to Pacific Lutheran College and the Meridan Fields sporting complex, as well as accessible public transport within walking distance of many more homes."
Mr Bailey said a total of nine new bus stops would be built along the new portion of route 612, while two new bus stops will be built on Woodlands Boulevard in Kawana Forest estate for route 611.
Benefits of route 611 Kawana Forest route extension
- Public transport access to Kawana Forest estate (part of Meridian Plains) for the first time
- Addresses community interest for public transport services
- Direct journey to Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Kawana Shoppingworld, Mooloolaba and Maroochydore
- Large span of hours with services every 30 minutes on weekdays and 60 minutes on weekends
Benefits of route 612 Bli Bli extension include:
- Improved public transport service coverage
- Large increase in the number of residents in Bli Bli living within 400m of a bus stop
- Addresses community interest in seeking public transport to, from, and within the area
- Provides an urban service option for students of Good Samaritan Catholic College to use to and from school, and provides a frequent bus service for residents and students
- Connections to the Sunshine Coast bus and train network
- Services every 60 minutes, seven days a week
Information on the Palmview and Maroochydore bus extension and route realignment will be available closer to implementation as final details are settled.
The Southern Sunshine Coast Public Transport Strategy incorporates key corridors and existing public transport modes as part of the discussion around future public transport options that deliver the best outcomes for locals.
Visit the Translink website or call 13 12 30 for public transport information or to plan your journey.
