Traffic fix-it team bid to alleviate commuter chaos

A tow truck stationed on a major arterial route each morning to quickly resolve minor crashes would help combat traffic congestion, the local mayor says.

Commuter traffic backed up on the Southern Outlet after a car crash. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

A TOW truck stationed on the Southern Outlet each morning to quickly resolve minor crashes would help combat traffic congestion, says Kingborough Mayor Dean Winter.

The method is used on the Tasman Bridge to help minimise peak hour disruption for commuters on the run in from Hobart’s Eastern Shore.

Cr Winter’s suggestion follows a peak hour smash on the major arterial route on Tuesday morning that delayed motorists travelling to Hobart for several hours. The multi vehicle collision on the northbound, steep downhill section near Dynnyrne blocked the right lane about 7.30am.

By 8am traffic was backed up to Kingston, 10km from the crash site, with delays affecting motorists who hadn’t got on to the Southern Outlet yet.

HEADACHES AFTER SOUTHERN OUTLET SMASH

A four-car smash at Kingston about 7.50am on November 14 also closed one lane for commuters on the run into Hobart.

Cr Winter said Tuesday’s crash highlighted the need for a tow truck ready for action to help quickly disperse delays that continue to occur during peak hour.

“I’ve made representations to the Infrastructure Minister’s office in relation to this and I hope the Government will see this as a priority issue,” he said.

“With more than 80 per cent of Kingborough workers commuting into the city, the impact of crashes like this is enormous.”

Infrastructure Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the Government was implementing a traffic management plan.

“This plan includes establishing a traffic incident response team to be on duty between 7am-9.30am and 4pm-6.30pm weekdays,” Mr Rockliff said.

“This team will monitor the three main entrances into the city and develop the use of drone technology for fast information to first responders.

“We will also install overhead digital messaging to advise motorists of delays and travel route advice, through social media platforms and mobile applications. Planning and consultation has also already started for the Southern Outlet fifth lane.’’

CENTRAL FIFTH LANE PROPOSED FOR SOUTHERN OUTLET

Congestion on the Southern Outlet is shaping up as the major battleground for the independent candidates in the Upper House division of Nelson.

Former footballer and teacher Blair Brownless has called for a commuter ferry to connect Blackmans Bay, Kingston, Taroona and Sandy Bay to combat traffic delays.

“There is no plan B for traffic management in Nelson and it is time something was done about it,” he said.

Candidate Richard Griggs, a lawyer, has proposed a trial of free peak hour buses between Kingston and Hobart to help beat congestion.

“The timing is perfect for the State Government to partner with their two councils to trial free peak hour buses on the Southern Outlet, Channel Highway and Sandy Bay Rd to combat congestion,” he said.

The plan would cost about $2.5 million a year, compared to a $35 million plan to build a fifth lane on the Southern Outlet.