Curbthe

INCREASING local jobs, decentralisation and carpooling were other solution ideas thrown around to combat traffic congestion during the transport forum in Berwick last Wednesday.
Casey Council’s Paul Hamilton said more than 75 percent of Casey residents worked outside of the area.
“The gap between workers and jobs (in Casey) is growing.”
Former Casey councillor Paul Richardson said the focus should be on creating more local jobs to minimise travel time.
RACV’s Brian Negus suggested Pakenham as a potential employment corridor, which is close to the City of Casey and would allow residents to travel against the peak hour traffic.
Damien Ferrie from the Department of Transport said traffic dropped between five to 10 per cent during school holidays and most cars heading into the city in the mornings had one person per vehicle, which highlighted the need for more carpooling.
It was suggested that more workplaces and workers carpool, which would save time and money and provide companionship during the trips.
A resident also brought up the possibility of decentralisation, such as focusing on developing Melbourne’s outer suburbs to direct traffic outside of the city and alleviate traffic congestion. Albury and Wodonga were used as examples.
However, Mr Ferrie said people had a natural inclination towards the city.
“People want to live in cities and enjoy the services offered there.”