Think Tram is a program designed to improve tram travel times, reliability and safety along the busiest parts of Melbourne’s tram network. VicRoads is managing the program in partnership with the Department of Infrastructure and Yarra Trams and in consultation with local government and local communities.
Melbourne, like any major city, has a busy road network. We continually need to think about how we can make the most of our existing road space. Programs such as Think Tram are designed to make trams an attractive transport alternative by improving their reliability, safety and accessibility.
Think Tram is a partnership between the State Government, Yarra Trams and local government with a focus on key tram routes in the inner metropolitan area. Projects include a range of road-based, technological and road rule based options to ensure trams move more efficiently through busy streets. Tram stop upgrades, raised dividing strips to separate trams and motorists, right turn bans and traffic light sequence changes are considered in consultation with local government and communities to ensure the changes are best suited to specific routes and municipalities.
Every effort is made to minimise disruptions to traffic. However, motorists may encounter some minor delays. Road users will be advised of the program works and changed traffic conditions by signage, local newspapers, brochures and information sessions.
The program has been extended until 2010 and is being progressively implemented as new projects are developed.
The options to be implemented have been developed by traffic engineers in consultation with various stakeholders including municipalities, motoring organisations, public transport industry representatives and the community to determine which measures best suit the needs of each area. Most projects, such as tram stop upgrades, traffic signal sequence changes and right turn bans have been used successfully in other parts of the tram network.
While the time savings will vary on each of the routes in the program, the aim is to significantly reduce overall tram journey times. Fewer delays caused by interruptions from other traffic and traffic signals will result in a more reliable tram service.
In achieving a balanced approach between public and private transport use, some locations on the network will be modified to give trams and passenger safety greater priority. Changes to road conditions will mean motorists have to adapt their driving accordingly. All changes to the road conditions will be well signed to assist motorists.
In most cases, yes. VicRoads and Yarra Trams will be monitoring the treatments along each of the tram routes to evaluate their success in improving tram travel times, reliability, accessibility and safety. If treatments do not significantly improve tram operations, other options will be investigated.
Telephone 1300 309 571
Email thinktram@roads.vic.gov.au