Brisbane's transport crisis demands 'bold rethinking', officials and experts warn ahead of mid-year budget review

Brisbane's transport infrastructure is at a critical juncture, with senior officials and urban planning experts calling for sweeping reforms ahead of the council's mid-year budget review, expected within weeks.

The warnings come as traffic congestion on key arterial routes—including the Riverside Expressway, South Bank Parkway, and approaches to the Story Bridge—continues to worsen, with peak-hour delays now regularly exceeding 40 minutes. Peak-hour commuter volumes through the CBD have climbed 18 per cent over the past three years, according to traffic modelling data reviewed by The Daily Brisbane.

"We're at an inflection point," said Dr Sarah Chen, director of transport policy at the Queensland University of Technology's Urban Research Centre. "The current bus rapid transit system, while improved, still only captures a fraction of commuters who would shift from cars if we invested properly in frequency and coverage."

The gridlock has particular impact on inner-city precincts reliant on foot traffic. Business leaders in Fortitude Valley and South Bank have expressed concerns about customer accessibility, with some citing transport reliability as a factor in recent retail challenges.

Council insiders indicate the budget review will examine three scenarios: accelerated investment in metro-style rail connecting Brisbane Airport through the CBD to Sunnybank; expanded bus network frequency on high-demand corridors; or a hybrid approach focusing on dedicated bus lanes along major routes like the Warrego Highway approach.

"Each option has profound budget implications," explained Professor Michael Hartley from the University of Brisbane's School of Architecture and Built Environment. "The question isn't whether Brisbane needs change—it's whether we're willing to fund it adequately and make difficult land-use decisions."

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has previously indicated support for "transformative" transport investment, though specific commitments remain pending the budget review. State transport officials have signalled willingness to co-fund projects that reduce car dependency and support the state government's emissions reduction targets.

Community advocates have also weighed in. The Peak District Residents Association and South Bank Parklands precinct committees have submitted formal recommendations to council, emphasising the need for solutions that prioritise pedestrian access and cycling infrastructure alongside transit.

Industry analyst James Woodbury from Brisbane Economics Council noted that every year of delay carries a cost: "Congestion-related productivity loss is estimated at $340 million annually across the greater Brisbane region. Investment now looks increasingly urgent."

The council's budget review is expected to be tabled by late July, with community consultation to follow.

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