The Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s fastest growing cities. With an abundance of stunning beaches stretching along the coastline and easy access to surrounding lush hinterland- it is no wonder the Gold Coast is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. In addition to being one of the fastest growing cities in Queensland, the Gold Coast will also play host to the upcoming 2018 Commonwealth Games. The increase in population and steady growth of tourism means planning for a sustainable future is important.

The Gold Coast has made a commitment to invest into infrastructure which benefits the community and its growing population. One way the Gold Coast is making this a reality is with the G:link Light Rail. With passengers boarding stage one of the project in June last year.

With preliminary discussions into stage 2 of the Light Rail project in the media, Ramsden Lawyers on the Gold Coast have collected some simple reminders for safely sharing the space with trams:

• Always remember that Gold Coast Light Rail Trams have right of way
• If you are driving, you are not allowed to park or travel along the tracks in your motor vehicle (unless directed by traffic signs)
• The City of Gold Coast website states, “Motor vehicles should only drive over the tracks at intersections and when directed by traffic lights” and reminds motorists to not queue across the tracks at any time
•  Be mindful of U-turns. As per any other road in Queensland, they are only legal where there is clear signage indicating U-turns are permitted

Cyclists and pedestrians should still follow the road rules applicable for Queensland. In particular, commuters and pedestrians need to stay alert and always cross at designated crossings.

The Gold Coast City Transport Strategy 2031 aims to, “manage road space better, eliminate bottle necks, invest in cycling and walking, extend the light rail network, improve bus services and extend the capacity of the heavy railway,” states the City of Gold Coast website, explaining that a balanced transport system is the key to a positive transport future.

In the submission Towards More Sustainable Cities: Building a Public Transport Culture, discussion highlights that “through improved service, frequency and coverage, enhanced service reliability and better marketing of public transport will lead to a significant increase in public transport use in Australian cities.”

February, 2015 monthly service statistics for the G:link show 99.72% for punctuality and 99.26% for reliability. Marketing for the light rail includes an app which helps users plan their journeys. Marketers are working to encourage a public transport culture which focuses on the economic, environmental and social benefits of sustainable transport systems, all which work to protect the beaches and lifestyle enjoyed on the Gold Coast.

Ongoing education and encouraging the adaptability of motorists to share the roads safely with light rail trams, cyclists and commuters means the Gold Coast is just one step forward in the vision of a positive transport future.

The Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s fastest growing cities. With an abundance of stunning beaches stretching along the coastline and easy access to surrounding lush hinterland- it is no wonder the Gold Coast is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. In addition to being one of the fastest growing cities in Queensland, the Gold Coast will also play host to the upcoming 2018 Commonwealth Games. The increase in population and steady growth of tourism means planning for a sustainable future is important.

The Gold Coast has made a commitment to invest into infrastructure which benefits the community and its growing population. One way the Gold Coast is making this a reality is with the G:link Light Rail. With passengers boarding stage one of the project in June last year.

With preliminary discussions into stage 2 of the Light Rail project in the media, Ramsden Lawyers on the Gold Coast have collected some simple reminders for safely sharing the space with trams:

• Always remember that Gold Coast Light Rail Trams have right of way
• If you are driving, you are not allowed to park or travel along the tracks in your motor vehicle (unless directed by traffic signs)
• The City of Gold Coast website states, “Motor vehicles should only drive over the tracks at intersections and when directed by traffic lights” and reminds motorists to not queue across the tracks at any time
•  Be mindful of U-turns. As per any other road in Queensland, they are only legal where there is clear signage indicating U-turns are permitted

Cyclists and pedestrians should still follow the road rules applicable for Queensland. In particular, commuters and pedestrians need to stay alert and always cross at designated crossings.

The Gold Coast City Transport Strategy 2031 aims to, “manage road space better, eliminate bottle necks, invest in cycling and walking, extend the light rail network, improve bus services and extend the capacity of the heavy railway,” states the City of Gold Coast website, explaining that a balanced transport system is the key to a positive transport future.

In the submission Towards More Sustainable Cities: Building a Public Transport Culture, discussion highlights that “through improved service, frequency and coverage, enhanced service reliability and better marketing of public transport will lead to a significant increase in public transport use in Australian cities.”

February, 2015 monthly service statistics for the G:link show 99.72% for punctuality and 99.26% for reliability. Marketing for the light rail includes an app which helps users plan their journeys. Marketers are working to encourage a public transport culture which focuses on the economic, environmental and social benefits of sustainable transport systems, all which work to protect the beaches and lifestyle enjoyed on the Gold Coast.

Ongoing education and encouraging the adaptability of motorists to share the roads safely with light rail trams, cyclists and commuters means the Gold Coast is just one step forward in the vision of a positive transport future.