ITS Monday: Edition 17, 2023

To get to net zero, policymakers need to listen to communities. Here’s what they can learn from places like Geelong

“Over the past six months Geelong has hosted one of Australia’s largest ever local “listening campaigns” relating to the climate transition. It’s part of the University of Sydney’s Real Deal for Australia project. The aim is to give local communities a real say in the changes they’re facing.” From The Conversation, and written by Amanda Tattersall, Research Lead Sydney Policy Lab, Postdoctoral Fellow Geography, Host of ChangeMakers Podcast, University of Sydney.

Related iMOVE project outcome: FACTS: A Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy

Freight hubs reviewed as industry urges authorities to ‘make a plan and stick with it’

“The future of two interstate freight hubs designed to help take thousands of trucks off Melbourne’s roads remains unclear, with the state government accused of inaction and industry experts calling for a decision.”

iMOVE case study: Paving the way for efficient urban freight delivery

Volvo Group throws its weight behind big electric trucks in Australia

“Vehicle manufacturer Volvo Group wants heavier trucks to be allowed on Australian roads, arguing that it will not be able to make electric trucks in Brisbane capable of travelling several hundred kilometres unless regulators change the rules.”

See also our interview with Tim Camilleri, e-Mobility Solutions Manager at Volvo Group Australia

Cruise, Waymo near approval to charge for 24/7 robotaxis in San Francisco

Despite growing resistance to their presence on San Francisco roads, Waymo’s autonomous taxis are moving close to extending hours and service areas, and to charging money for rides.

Related iMOVE project outcome: Ipswich Connected Vehicle Pilot: Final reports

Free electric ferry ‘top priority’ for Sydney’s western harbour

“A free, electric ferry would zip Sydneysiders and tourists between Walsh Bay, Barangaroo, Pyrmont and Blackwattle Bay under plans from a business group established by the previous government to improve the western harbour precinct.”

Sydney toll road review to examine who benefits from price caps

Story #2 about Sydney this week. “Alan Fels, the former chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, has been tasked by the new government with reviewing Sydney’s controversial road toll network. Addressing traffic congestion and cost-of-living pressures, particularly for regular commuters without viable public transport alternatives, is another focus.”

Auckland Transport vows to change its tarnished image and respond to needs of Aucklanders

Auckland Transport has apparently had a tough time over the past 13 years about its efforts to change/improve transport in the city. and has received instruction from the mayor to “… stop trying to change how Aucklanders live and listen to and follow the wishes of how people actually live.”

What cycling Eden can teach the world about bicycle infrastructure

The cycling Eden referred to here is The Netherlands. “The Netherlands wasn’t always a cycling Eden; in the 1970’s, its car-centric infrastructure actually mirrored much of the U.S. But when pedestrian traffic deaths began to rise and gas prices skyrocketed due to the oil crisis, Dutch officials decided to pivot to a more bike-friendly transportation plan. There were some hiccups along the way, of course, as road designers learned from their mistakes. But over the decades, bicycling has become an ingrained part of Dutch life and the primary mode of transportation throughout the country.”

Related iMOVE project: Safer cycling and street design: A guide for policymakers