New report on city bus network is launched

DUBLINERS are being asked to have their say on the future of the city’s bus services following publication of a new report on current transport demand patterns across the city.

The Choices Report was launched last week by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and it suggests new strategies that could dramatically improve the city’s bus services.

The report was prepared by Jarrett Walker & Associates, a US based firm that specialises in designing metropolitan public transport systems.

It reviews the patterns of transport demand across the Dublin region and the structure of the existing bus network. It also identifies issues with the current bus system and suggests measures that could address deficiencies.

The NTA is seeking the public’s views on issues raised in the report, particularly on possible strategies that could be implemented in the redesign of the bus network.

“The current system of bus routes and services in Dublin is complex,” said NTA Chief Executive, Anne Graham.

“With about 130 different bus routes forming the Dublin Bus network, very few people would be able to describe the routes of more than a handful of those services, and most users limit themselves to a few familiar routes.

“The bus network in Dublin is very radially focused, with most routes emanating outwards from the City Centre. Orbital bus services – routes that skirt the city – are few and far between. 

“As a result, many bus journeys can only be made by firstly traveling into the city centre on one route, and then taking another bus service out.”

The NTA wants a system with greater scope for interconnection between routes, and where connecting passengers don’t necessarily have to travel to the city centre.

“We want to move towards a system that minimises the overall period of time needed for most journeys and focuses transfers onto high frequency routes, cutting down waiting and journey times,” Graham continued.

“While much has already been achieved by Dublin Bus in making the network more efficient, the bus system across the Dublin region has the potential to operate much more effectively than it currently does.”

The report comes just after the launch of BusConnects, which proposes new initiatives to radically transform public transport in the Dublin region and includes an investment of €1 billion.

Dublin Bus CEO, Ray Coyne, is encouraging bus users to have their say in the future of the network.

“I am delighted with the commitment to invest €1 billion in Dublin’s bus network – this is great news for our customers and a huge opportunity to continue the growth and success of Dublin Bus,” he said.

“We will carry over 130 million passengers this year and continue to grow by constantly improving services. An excellent bus network is clearly of strategic importance to the city.

“Dublin Bus will work closely with Jarrett Walker and the NTA to future proof the city’s bus network for the benefit of our customers and for a successful Dublin.

“I would also encourage all our customers to engage in this debate and let us know what bus network they want for the future.”

An online web survey is now available at www.BusConnects.ie. Responses will be used to inform the network redesign process.

A detailed Network Review Report will be published later this year to open up a further process of public consultation in early 2018 before any recommendations are implemented.