Western Australia Minister for Transport Troy Buswell

City To Keep Moving During CHOGM

Victor P Taffa

• Public access to road map showing affected CBD roads
• Free public transport on the Transperth network on October 28-29
• Extra train and bus services for the Big Aussie Barbecue
• State-of-the-art 24-hour CBD surveillance
• Real time traffic updates during CHOGM

With five days to go until the official start of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), the State’s transport agencies are working hard to keep people moving during one of the biggest events ever to be held in WA.

At Main Roads’ Traffic Operations Centre (TOC) today, Transport Minister Troy Buswell said CHOGM 2011 was an occasion for West Australians to enjoy, and many steps had been taken to minimise disruption and make the celebrations accessible to all.

“Main Roads and WA Police have undertaken extensive traffic management planning to anticipate any challenges and respond appropriately.” Mr. Buswell said.

“By visiting the Main Roads WA’s website, people can access comprehensive maps showing the affected roads during CHOGM 2011 from Friday October 28 to Sunday October 30.”

“Although there will be some CBD road closures for CHOGM 2011 activities, WA Police will re-open them immediately afterwards, where possible.”

“Some taxi ranks in affected areas have been relocated, but the temporary ranks are clearly marked on the map.” Mr. Buswell said.

“I urge people to take advantage of the free public transport on October 28 and 29 – leave your car at home and travel into the city to enjoy the Big Aussie Barbecue with Her Majesty The Queen, or one of the many other family-friendly activities.”

Many of the events taking place during the CHOGM week are supported by extra bus and train services and many train stations have Park n’ Ride facilities, which are free on public holidays and weekends.

The Minister also said safety and security for visitors and locals was paramount.

“We will monitor the city during CHOGM 2011 via our state-of-the-art facilities at the TOC, which manages and monitors every intersection in the metropolitan area 24 hours a day.” Mr. Buswell said.

“The Public Transport Authority’s new $7.4 Million Control Monitoring Room will simultaneously monitor all Transperth train stations, bus interchanges and car parks.”

“Main Roads and Transperth will use a range of channels to communicate real-time public transport and road information to the public.”

“Each agency has increased staff numbers in their call centre and will engage the community via social media, radio alerts, print advertising and web updates.” Mr. Buswell said.

Fact File

• Map showing affected roads at http://www.mainroads.wa.gov.au