We need to rethink the design of our streets to become more people-friendly, to encourage active and public transport, and to reduce traffic congestion.
Currently, Brisbane streets prioritise cars, which negatively impacts our neighbourhoods. These impacts include, segregated land use, disconnected footpaths and bike ways, unreliable and expensive public transport that increases congestion, and many streets are unsafe and unfriendly for people who bike or walk.
Let's create safe streets for our kids, so they can travel to and from school with ease. This not only aids in reducing traffic congestion but also encourages children to become more independent.
Redesigning our streets for people yields numerous benefits, promoting health and well-being by encouraging physical activity, and lowering emissions from car use contributes to addressing the climate crisis. It's good for local businesses to have streets that are safe and accessible for pedestrians, because a high percentage of retail expenditure comes from local residents and workers.
A great local example that illustrates how streets can be better for people is the Rosalie Village. At present the amount of traffic through that precinct makes it precarious to cross the road safely and the LNP council recently cancelled a new pedestrian crossing there. Transforming the precinct to prioritise people over cars would enhance its appeal and boost patronage for local businesses. I am currently hosting a petition to gauge local support for a more people-oriented precinct in Rosalie, so I encourage you to add your voice to it.
We must also enhance our bike path infrastructure, prioritising improved connectivity, and cultivate vibrant public spaces adorned with more trees and greenery. The greening of our streets serves not only to cool down our city but also to promote walking, cycling, and social gatherings, revitalising our public spaces.
A fresh perspective on street spaces involves questioning, 'How many people can we facilitate along the street?' rather than 'how many cars.' The Climate Council has conducted important modelling on how multi-modal transport options efficiently utilise street spaces. This multi-modal approach helps us avoid transforming streets into car parks due to congestion, creating more space for active transport, street plantings, and social activities. Additionally, it aids in combating the urban heat island effect, where dark, hot asphalt makes our cities much more uncomfortable and unhealthy than they should be.
If you vote for me, I will passionately advocate for these innovative ideas and solutions. Let's secure a Greens representative for the Paddington ward in the Council!