North Brisbane is undergoing a period of significant growth and transformation, with key infrastructure projects enhancing transport, education, and community spaces. From major road upgrades to public transport expansions and urban redevelopment, these projects are shaping the region into a more connected, livable, and economically vibrant area.

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1. North West Transport Network (NWTN)

The North West Transport Network (NWTN) is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at improving transport options for Brisbane’s north-west. This region has faced persistent challenges with congestion and limited public transport, and the NWTN addresses these issues with a comprehensive plan.

Key Objectives of the NWTN:

• Reducing Congestion:
  • Upgrades to existing road networks will ease bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours.
  • Improvements will support the growing populations in northern suburbs such as Keperra, Everton Park, Mitchelton, and surrounding areas.
• Public Transport Upgrades:
  • New bus services and priority lanes will provide faster, more reliable options for commuters.
  • Enhanced access to destinations such as Brisbane CBD, Chermside, and other transport hubs.
• Seamless Connectivity:
  • The NWTN will connect with major corridors like the Inner City Bypass and Airport Link Tunnel, improving access to Brisbane Airport and other key locations.
• Future-Proofing Infrastructure:
  • Plans include potential expansions of rail services and cycling infrastructure to accommodate future growth.

Key Components of the NWTN:

1. Road Upgrades:
   • Widening and resurfacing roads to improve traffic flow.
   • Upgraded intersections to reduce delays and enhance safety.
2. Public Transport Enhancements:
   • Introduction of express bus services linking major hubs.
   • Improved bus stops with modern facilities, including real-time service updates and sheltered waiting areas.

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2. Brisbane Metro Expansion

The Brisbane Metro is a high-frequency bus rapid transit (BRT) system designed to transform public transport in Brisbane. While the initial stages focus on the inner city and southern suburbs, future expansions aim to extend the network to Chermside in North Brisbane.

Key Features of the Brisbane Metro:

• High-Frequency Services:
  • Buses will run every 3 minutes during peak times, significantly reducing wait times and improving reliability.
• Dedicated Busways:
  • Metro buses will operate on dedicated busways, bypassing traffic congestion for faster, more efficient travel.

Proposed Expansion to Chermside:

1. Enhancing Accessibility:
   • This extension will connect the major northern suburb of Chermside to the Metro network, linking it to Brisbane CBD and other key locations.
2. Integration with Existing Infrastructure:
   • The Metro will seamlessly connect with bus and train services at Chermside, creating a comprehensive public transport solution.
3. Supporting Growth:
   • As a hub with one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres, healthcare facilities, and a growing residential population, Chermside will benefit from improved connectivity and increased capacity.

Benefits of the Brisbane Metro:

• Reduced Travel Times: Faster, more reliable public transport options for residents of North Brisbane.
• Improved Capacity: The Metro can carry more passengers than traditional buses, meeting the needs of a growing population.
• Environmental Impact: By reducing car dependency, the Metro supports lower greenhouse gas emissions.

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3. Kedron to Carseldine Road Tunnel Proposal

The Queensland Government has allocated $35 million for a detailed investment proposal to assess the feasibility of constructing a 7-kilometre toll road tunnel between Kedron and Carseldine. This transformative project aims to alleviate congestion on Gympie Road, one of Brisbane’s busiest transport routes.

Key Features:

• Seamless Connectivity:
  • The tunnel will provide an underground link from the Bruce Highway to major motorways such as Legacy Way, Clem 7, and the M1.
• Congestion Relief:
  • By diverting up to 40,000 vehicles daily from Gympie Road, the tunnel will ease surface traffic and improve travel times for local and long-distance commuters.
• Economic Benefits:
  • Estimated to create 1,800 jobs during construction and improve transport efficiency for businesses and residents.

Projected Costs:

While the initial $35 million funding covers feasibility studies and planning, the tunnel’s construction is estimated to cost $10 billion. Despite the high price tag, the benefits of reduced congestion and faster travel times justify the investment.

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4. Petrie Mill Redevelopment

The Petrie Mill Redevelopment is transforming the former mill site into a vibrant mixed-use precinct that combines education, residential living, retail, and community spaces.

Key Components:

1. University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) Campus:
   • The new USC Moreton Bay campus is the centrepiece of the redevelopment, projected to cater to 10,000 students by 2030.
   • The campus offers a range of programs, from engineering and IT to business and health sciences.
2. Residential Developments:
   • A mix of housing options, including student accommodation and modern family homes, ensures diverse living choices.
3. Retail and Commercial Spaces:
   • Retail outlets, cafes, and commercial spaces will create jobs and support the local economy.
4. Community Spaces:
   • Parks, walking paths, and event spaces enhance livability and foster a sense of community.
5. Transport Connectivity:
   • Proximity to Petrie Train Station ensures seamless access to Brisbane CBD and the Sunshine Coast.

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5. Northern Transitway

The Northern Transitway prioritises bus services along Gympie Road, addressing congestion and supporting North Brisbane’s growing population.

Key Features:

• Dedicated Bus Lanes: Exclusive lanes ensure faster, more reliable bus travel.
• Modern Bus Stops: Real-time updates and enhanced safety features improve the commuter experience.
• Increased Frequency: Services will run more often to accommodate demand.

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6. Suburbs Benefiting from 2032 Olympic Preparations

Several northern suburbs will receive upgrades to support Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics, including:

• Kedron: Transport improvements tied to the road tunnel proposal.
• Chermside: Enhanced public transport and infrastructure.
• Carseldine, Aspley, Northgate, Nudgee, Sandgate, Bracken Ridge, Zillmere, Boondall: Various upgrades to transport, amenities, and venues.

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Conclusion

These transformative projects are reshaping North Brisbane into a dynamic, connected, and future-ready region. From improved transport to urban redevelopment and Olympic preparations, these initiatives ensure the area remains a hub of growth and opportunity.