Active transport solutions for planned disruptions

This project will evaluate the impact and effectiveness of active transport initiatives introduced during temporary transport plans (such as rail closure), with a focus on promoting an increase in walking and bike riding.

This research will examine how disruptions to regular travel patterns caused by the introduction of temporary transport plans (TTPs) influence people to use active transport for all or part of their journeys. It will also assess how effective the supporting measures are in encouraging this shift in behaviour.

Insights from this research will inform the future design and delivery of active transport programs across NSW.

Participants

• Transport for NSW
• University of Technology Sydney
  

Project background

Active transport relates to physical activity undertaken as a means of transport. It includes walking, cycling and the use of other non-motorised vehicles such as e-bikes and skateboards. More specifically, it involves undertaking a journey for a specific purpose that might otherwise have involved motorised transport.
The active transport initiatives supporting Southwest Link comprise a suite of initiatives to facilitate and promote active transport as a preferred transport option during rail disruptions. This project represents the first time Transport for NSW has coordinated and implemented an active transport package of this scale in response to a planned transport disruption.

As such, it provides a unique opportunity to trial and assess a range of active transport initiatives. These include the introduction and adaption of infrastructure to support walking and cycling (such as cycling routes and secure bike parking), along with policy changes and promotional efforts aimed at influencing a change in travel behaviour.

While providing an alternative transport option during the planned disruption, the project also seeks to support a longer-term shift – helping people adopt active transport for all or part of their journeys on an ongoing basis. In doing so, it contributes to TfNSW’s broader goals for active and sustainable transport as outlined in the Future Transport Strategy and Active Transport Strategy.

Project objectives

1. The effectiveness and processes of active transport initiatives supporting Southwest Link; and
2. The effect of converting full or part journeys to active transport in the short and long term.

Please note …

This page will be a living record of this project. As it matures, hits milestones, etc., we’ll continue to add information, links, images, interviews and more. Watch this space!