Government

Adelaide Hills to receive 600 new weekly bus services in major public transport boost

By Glam Adelaide

Posted on August 15, 2024

Adelaide Hills commuters can look forward to 600 additional weekly bus services starting August 25, significantly enhancing travel flexibility and reducing city congestion as part of a $19 million public transport expansion.

Starting Sunday, 25 August, Adelaide Hills commuters will see an increase in bus services, which aims to provide more convenience and reduce road congestion. This expansion includes close to 600 extra services each week, representing a 42 percent boost in frequency between the city and the Adelaide Hills.

The SA Government has said the new schedule will feature an additional 384 weekly services on this route. This boost follows a set of improvements made earlier in the year under a $19 million public transport expansion designed to meet the needs of rapidly expanding local communities. From Mount Barker, a new express Go Zone will allow buses to run at least every 15 minutes from early morning until evening, and every six minutes during peak times on weekdays. Services will also increase during weekends with a schedule every 15 minutes between 7.30am and 7pm.

The initiative also includes the introduction of the Crafers Park ‘n’ Ride facility, which was opened last month. It provides a space where commuters can park their vehicles and transition to a bus for their city commute. The facility aims to simplify the use of public transport and lessen the number of cars on the road.

Since the onset of these transport enhancements in January, there has been a significant increase in the community using the bus services. Sunday services saw bus usage soar by 119 percent, while weekday numbers rose by 24 percent across the three express routes from Mount Barker to the city. Dan Cregan, Member for Kavel said “We know how rapidly the Hills region is growing – indeed, Mount Barker is on track to become South Australia’s largest city outside of Adelaide. That’s why investing in public transport services between the Adelaide Hills and the city is vital.”

In support of these expansions, the initiative has recruited 24 new drivers and is gradually incorporating a new fleet of hybrid-diesel buses designed for a quieter, safer, and more comfortable journey.

These enhancements are part of a broader strategy by the state government to not only improve public transport frequency and capacity but also to provide flexible transport options tailored to community needs and environmental sustainability by reducing traffic volumes on the road.

Hills commuters are encouraged to visit the Adelaide Metro website for more information, including new timetables and route numbers.