An ITS Vision for Melbourne’s Southbank Precinct

Abstract

Melbourne’s Southbank area is achieving prominence as an activity centre because of the variety of cultural, sporting and entertainment opportunities which it provides. This paper outlines opportunities to maximise the economic and social value of the area by facilitating travel to andthrough the area. The focus here concerns the integration of intelligent transport systems (ITS) into the Southbank area. ITS covers the application of advanced information processing and communications, sensing and control technologies to surface transport. ITS will assist in the reduction of traffic congestion and inconvenience to drivers, public transport users, pedestrians, bicyclists and other travellers. The level of technology that is presently available revolves around variable message roadside signs, radio broadcasts and telephone services. For motorised vehicles, roadside systems appear to present the best option for parking and traffic information. Radio and television systems have the advantage of reaching an urban-wide audience while the roadside systems can focus on particular areas. The linear nature of the Southbank area and associated transport infrastructure lends itself to roadside information providing directions to parking and other facilities. Information for pedestrians can be provided in localised information booths or kiosks. This information could relate to entertainment, places of interest, public transport timetables, provisions of taxi services and parking. The Southbank area stands to benefit not only in the long term, but also during the period when much of the area is being developed, from investment in an ITS to cater for the diverse needs of the many people will visit Melbourne’s entertainment, sporting and cultural hub.