Editorial Free Shuttle Bus Positive Move For City
Illawarra Mercury
Thursday December 4, 2008
IN 2004, Alex Darling, then Wollongong's lord mayor, returned from a visit to Perth enthusing about the city's free bus service. He was adamant the people of Wollongong could expect a similar service "some time in the future".
Almost five years later, his pledge is finally to be realised.While Mr Darling had no luck convincing the government of the day to get behind the proposal, the Rees Government has announced that a free shuttle bus will start in Wollongong early next year, servicing the university, railway station, CBD, hospital, innovation campus and TAFE college.It's welcome news and credit should be shared among advocates such as Mr Darling, as well as the Government which will ultimately deliver the service.It is also extremely timely, coming as Wollongong City Council reviews parking strategies and the future of Crown St Mall. Motorists who regularly travel into the CBD complain of congestion and lack of parking, but have few alternatives available to them.Similarly, it can be frustrating for those trying to get to the university, which not only has a large student body but is also one of the region's largest employers.It is a positive for the city in so many ways, and providing it is properly and appropriately run, the service deserves to be a huge success.
© 2008 Illawarra Mercury