2019-09-10
The ACT Greens have welcomed the ACT Government announcement that Light Rail will begin its journey to Woden, via a Stage 2A from Alinga Street to Commonwealth Park.
The announcement of stage 2A is another milestone in the Greens long-term vision of a modern light rail network for Canberra. The Greens’ Parliamentary Agreements with the ALP have already led to the building of light rail stage one, and the current agreement contains a commitment to take light rail south to Woden.
“The Greens are celebrating the news that light rail will now start its journey towards Canberra’s southside. If we want a sustainable and liveable Canberra as it continues to grow, we need to keep investing in initiatives like light rail,” ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury said today.
“The Greens vision is for light rail to reach Woden in the next few years, and eventually extend across Canberra, to create a public transport network for everyone.
“We don’t want to see any delays; the Greens want light rail to reach Woden as soon as possible, to bring great public transport, and all the quality urban renewal opportunities that come with it.
“One of the added benefits is that, with the achievement of 100% renewable electricity next year, light rail will be a zero emissions form of transport, so it is good for the environment.
“Light rail stage 1 is already showing excellent results, with many more people using public transport, as well as associated urban renewal and improvements to the public realm.
“Continuing the light rail project to Commonwealth Park is a good step to keep the project moving, given the range of complex heritage and environmental issues that need to be dealt with through the Parliamentary Triangle.
“The Greens have spent many years advocating for light rail as a viable option to help make Canberra into a leading sustainable city, and it’s great to see the progress,” said Mr Rattenbury.
