Major traffic plan for huge Strand show

Date: Monday, 14th September 2009

Townsville City Council and the Queensland Police Service have released a comprehensive traffic management plan for the Air Display and Fireworks Spectacular and the Strand’s 10th birthday celebrations on September 26.

The plan will include the coordination of road closures, parking zones, bus and park and ride services, a major presence of traffic police and a central traffic control centre to move tens of thousands of people in and out of North Ward.

Barricades will be placed on selected streets in North Ward after the event to improve the flow of exiting vehicles.

Corporate Services Committee chair Cr Natalie Marr said the council’s events team had worked closely with police, Defence, Main Roads, emergency services and public transport providers to develop the plan.

“A lot of work has gone into ensuring the traffic and parking for a crowd of tens of thousands of people works efficiently,” Cr Marr said.

“People will be coming from near and far and converging on the Strand to enjoy one of the best air displays in Australia and the 10th birthday celebrations.

“All stakeholders have had a lot of input into a highly coordinated plan to make the day as hassle free as possible.

“While authorities have put in place thorough planning for the day, there is a lot people can do themselves to help ease traffic congestion and limit impacts on North Ward residents.

“We’re urging people to car pool, to take advantage of the park and ride options and if they do drive to be courteous and considerate to each other and local residents and follow directions of traffic controllers and police.

“The important thing is for people to plan ahead and be patient when they’re driving home.

“As part of the management plan, we will also be taking a range of steps to inform and minimise impacts for residents in North Ward, especially those living along the Strand.”

Townsville District Superintendent Noel Powers said the policing response was focused on ensuring the public enjoyed the event with minimal disruptions and an orderly and safe arrival and departure from the Strand area.

“A large policing presence will be deployed to ensure that people can enjoy the event in a safe and secure manner,” Supt Powers said.

“We urge everyone who is attending the event to plan ahead and where possible utilise public transport. If you are driving to the event make sure you understand the traffic management plan which has been put in place.”

Maps of the traffic and parking plan are available on the council’s website and will be advertised in the local media.

Key points of the plan:

• Jezzine Barracks grounds will be opened up to provide over 1000 car parks;
• Street parking zones throughout North Ward;
• Road closures on the Strand from 5am on the day;
• Barricades on several streets from 5-9pm to assist with exiting traffic flows;
• Large contingent of police directing traffic along Warburton St, and major routes out of North Ward and the city;
• Public information hotline to the Townsville Traffic Management Centre (TMC) 131940.
• Bus services from Kirwan with stops along Ross River Rd, Charters Towers Rd to the city and North Ward;
• Buses running from Stokes St transit centre in CBD to North Ward;
• Bus drop off-pick up zone in Burke St, adjacent to Queens Park;
• Red bus link from Dean St car park to North Ward;
• Continued access to the Strand for Strand residents and hotel guests until 10am on the day;
• North Ward residents notified in writing of traffic plans for the event;
• Public notice placed on The Strand advising of road closures a week before the event;
• Emergency vehicles access to the Strand maintained at all times.