Brisbane Metro hits major milestone of one million passengers

More than one million passengers have used the Brisbane Metro services since the first route, the M2 from UQ to RBWH, launched in January.

Brisbane's Metro has hit the one million passenger mark. Picture: Brisbane City Council

More than one million passengers have used the Brisbane Metro services since the first route, the M2 from the University of Queensland to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, launched in January.

The M2 has increased daily capacity on the former bus 66 route by 9200 passengers per day with a 12 per cent jump in patronage, Brisbane City Council said.

It said the M1 route from Eight Mile Plains to Roma St was on track to open by the middle of this year.

When both routes opened they would add 30 million seats a year.

In coming months the inbound and outbound platforms at Buranda station would be extended by 30m and the adjacent bus tunnel widened.

Finishing touches would be made to the Cultural Centre platform.

Metro buses would begin using the new Adelaide St tunnel once completed later this year.

Revised bus routes would also begin in coming months, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said.

“More than two-thirds of all public transport trips in Brisbane are made on a bus and now we’re able to offer thousands of extra services with Brisbane Metro,’’ he said.

“Our Metros and new bus network will ensure Brisbane can keep pace with our rapid population growth and allow us to deliver additional services where they are most needed.’’