Thousands of people have explored the new Adelaide Street Tunnel in Brisbane ahead of its official opening on 29 September 2023. The tunnel is set to enhance public transport by accommodating approximately 1,400 bus and metro trips each weekday. This development aims to alleviate congestion in the Central Business District (CBD) and support the city’s future growth.
Visitors to the tunnel participated in guided tours showcasing the 213-metre connection, which features innovative acoustics highlighted by a performance from local string ensemble Paradiso Strings. The tunnel construction involved over 500,000 hours of work and employed a pioneering tunneling method, allowing for 24-hour operations while minimizing disruptions to pedestrians and nearby businesses.
Infrastructure Investment and Connectivity
The Adelaide Street Tunnel represents a significant investment in Brisbane’s transport infrastructure, funded through a partnership with the Australian Government. It provides a vital link between North Quay and King George Square Station, connecting the Inner Northern and South East busways, thereby facilitating faster and more reliable journeys for commuters.
This opening is a key milestone in the evolution of Brisbane’s public transport. It follows the recent launch of the city’s New Bus Network, as well as the introduction of the M1 and M2 services. Since their launches, the Brisbane Metro has gained popularity, recording over 4 million trips to date, with 3,185,274 trips on M2 and 825,646 on M1.
According to Julie Collins, Acting Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, “The Albanese Labor Government is building Brisbane’s future, investing in transport projects that will revitalise the city and reshape the way we move.” The government has allocated over $400 million towards this transformative project, aimed at improving accessibility for residents and supporting local businesses.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The tunnel project has also created approximately 960 jobs, contributing to the local economy. Andrew Wines, Civic Cabinet Chair for Public Transport, emphasized the community’s enthusiasm for public transit improvements. “With more than 600 people moving to Brisbane every week, Metro is the high-frequency, high-capacity service Brisbane needs to make the step change from public transport to mass transit,” he stated.
Wines also noted that the Schrinner Council is the only local government in Queensland that subsidizes bus services, investing a record $210 million this financial year, covering 25 percent of all operating costs. This commitment aims to ensure that public transport remains accessible and efficient for residents.
Additionally, Madonna Jarrett, Federal Member for Brisbane, highlighted the importance of infrastructure in supporting the rapid growth of Southeast Queensland. “The Albanese Government is investing in nationally significant projects to build Brisbane and Queensland’s future,” she remarked, reinforcing the need for continued collaboration between local and state governments to enhance the region’s infrastructure.
The opening of the Adelaide Street Tunnel signifies a significant advancement in Brisbane’s public transport network, paving the way for further developments that will bring improved services to more residents across the city.
