30.06.2020Reimagining mobility in Melbourne after COVID-19
Moderated by Committee for Melbourne’s Director of Policy and Research, Leanne Edwards, the Committee hosted a virtual transport forum on 19 May entitled “Reimagining Mobility in Melbourne after COVID-19”. Experts Graham Currie (Monash University), Brendan Bourke (Port of Melbourne) and Peter Kartsidimas (RACV) reflected on the impact COVID-19 has had on Melbourne’s transport network, the likely short, medium, and long-term ramifications, as well as the actions required to ensure a more efficient transport system.
Preliminary research out of Monash University suggests that the travel behaviours of many Melburnians will return to normal once a vaccine is found. The Panellists also highlighted that despite the current economic slowdown, freight volumes will continue to grow over the long-term.
During the pre-vaccine phase however, the panellists highlighted that the constraints on the public transport system due to social distancing needed to be factored in, and the imperative to take this opportunity to invest in bike paths, shared mobility and other innovative transport solutions.
With congestion and overcrowding on Melbourne’s transport network expected to return in the medium to long-term, the three expert panellists stressed the need for an integrated transport plan, and the implementation of tangible and intangible policy initiatives that will enable a more seamless transport experience for individuals, and the freight and logistics sectors.
For more information please contact Leanne Edwards, Director Policy at ledwards@melbourne.org.au or Brett van Duppen, Policy and Research Officer at bvanduppen@melbourne.org.au
Click here to watch the forum
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