Bus interchange receives $1.7 million upgrade to boost connectivity

A REVAMPED bus shelter project at Ballina is now complete with a $1.7 million upgrade to the interchange area on Tamar Street.

It was done to help improve traffic flow in the CBD in time for Christmas and increase passenger accessibility and comfort.

The project involved the demolition of the ageing bus shelter in June this year to make way for a more functional terminal.

“The Tamar Street Bus Interchange is a central hub within our community, connecting visitors and locals from across the region,” Ballina Shire mayor Sharon Cadwallader said.

“Investing in key transport infrastructure is critical to supporting our region’s connectivity, making public transport more accessible and enhancing the travel experience for everyone.

“The new interchange not only looks fantastic but has also brought a vibrancy back to Tamar Street and enables easier access through Wigmore Arcade.

“As one of the first places visitors see when they arrive in Ballina, it’s important this precinct reflects the welcoming spirit of our shire.”

The shelter includes a covered walkway, two-bay bus zone for efficient pick-up and drop-off with improved bus access separate taxi zone for enhanced traffic management.

Improved landscaping throughout Interchange and adjacent carpark and improved stormwater drainage to mitigate minor flooding during high tides.

It also has widened walkways for safer, more accessible pedestrian travel.

The project was funded by Ballina Shire Council, the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the NSW Government’s Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants Scheme.

Parking will return to normal after changes were made to the surrounding area in June.