The Victorian Government has pledged to improve accessibility at more than 80 priority bus stops across the state to increase access to public transport.
The $5 million upgrade project announced in the Victorian Budget 2022/23 will target busy bus stops in Melbourne and regional Victoria, with a focus on those servicing vital community, disability services and care hubs.
Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll said the upgrades will remove barriers to access at key locations where disabled and aged communities reside and rely on the public transport system to socialise or to access essential services such medical centres, education, employment or shopping precincts.
“Whether it’s modern and accessible trams, trains and buses, upgrading tram and bus stops or improving train stations, improved crossings or better paths – we’re working hard to make Victoria’s transport network more modern and inclusive,” said Minister Carroll.
Works are now underway in Ballarat on the first six stops to be upgraded under the project and at least 80 bus stops are planned for upgrading across the state by June 2024 under the project.
Upgrades will typically include the installation of a concrete surfaces waiting area and tactile ground surface indicators to improve accessibility for people with mobility challenges and assist the vision impaired.
“We’re removing barriers and increasing accessibility at key bus stops in Ballarat ensuring more people can get to where they need to go using public transport,” said Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison.
