Drivers shun Go Between Bridge, flock to William Jolly

Brisbane Times reported the average number of vehicles using the William Jolly Bridge each day jumped by more than 5100 since Brisbane City Council closed Victoria Bridge to cars in January. 

RACQ Head of Public Policy Rebecca Michael said analysis of Council and Transport and Main Roads data showed, despite $100 subsidies for local residents, drivers continued to shun the neighbouring Go Between Bridge. 

“As expected, we’ve seen the William Jolly Bridge pick up the slack from the Victoria Bridge closure, causing extra delays for motorists crossing the river and in streets surrounding the William Jolly Bridge,” Dr Michael said.

“This once again proves it’s an underutilised asset and motorists can’t justify paying for such an expensive toll to travel such a short distance.

“Council, the Government and Transurban should step-in and offer discounts and incentives for all motorists to use the Go Between Bridge, not just local residents.

“We understand this would come at a cost, but the Go Between Bridge is operating well below capacity anyway and continues to offer little revenue, even with the recent closure.”

Dr Michael said congestion in Brisbane was currently higher than pre-COVID-19 levels while public transport patronage was still down 30 percent. 

“We need to be doing everything we can to reduce the growing traffic gridlock, including accelerating construction works at Roma Street to help relieve pressure on streets around the William Jolly Bridge,” Dr Michael said. 

“In turn, for drivers who need to get into the city but are stuck in the congestion in the surrounding areas we’d urge them to consider walking, cycling or catching public transport across the green Victoria Bridge if possible.”