Changes are coming to the speed limit on the Kurilpa Bridge in Brisbane, with the limit set to increase from 10km/h to 20km/h. This decision comes after an observational study and consultation found that the majority of bicycle and scooter riders were already travelling above the current limit. The study also found that interactions between bridge users were infrequent and easily manageable due to the modest demand on the bridge. As a result, the decision was made to increase the speed limit in order to better align with rider behavior and the stability of two-wheeled devices.
The Queensland Transport and Main Roads’ guideline states that a bicycle can become unstable at speeds below 11km/h, which may pose a hazard on shared paths. As pedestrians are generally walking faster than cyclists and scooter riders on the Kurilpa Bridge, there have been concerns about disruptions to the flow of traffic. By increasing the speed limit to 20km/h, it is hoped that pedestrians and cyclists can more easily coexist on the bridge without causing unnecessary hazards or discomfort.
The changes to the speed limit on the Kurilpa Bridge will be accompanied by other modifications, such as coloring the central three meters of the bridge to create a clear separation between pedestrians and riders. This “soft segregation” aims to guide pedestrian traffic to the outside edges of the bridge, while cyclists and scooter users can travel in the center. The goal is to improve safety and efficiency for all bridge users while minimizing potential conflicts.
The decision to increase the speed limit on the Kurilpa Bridge follows a similar change made to the Goodwill Bridge in 2017, where the speed limit was raised to 20km/h. This decision was made after a study found that the bridge was significantly busier than the Kurilpa Bridge and that pedestrians and cyclists were able to negotiate shared space effectively. The markings on the Goodwill Bridge indicate where pedestrians and cyclists should travel, further enhancing safety and efficiency on the shared path.
Space 4 Cycling Brisbane spokesman Chris Cox praised the decision to increase the speed limit on the Kurilpa Bridge, calling it a win for common sense. He noted that while most users were already exceeding the 10km/h limit, they were able to navigate the shared space without significant issues. By aligning the speed limit with actual rider behavior, it is hoped that the bridge will be more accessible and user-friendly for cyclists, scooter users, and pedestrians alike.
Overall, the decision to increase the speed limit on the Kurilpa Bridge in Brisbane is based on the findings of an observational study and consultation with stakeholders. With the majority of users already traveling above the current limit and able to negotiate shared space effectively, the increase to 20km/h is seen as a practical and sensible move. By making changes to signage and introducing soft segregation on the bridge, it is hoped that safety and efficiency will be improved for all users, creating a more harmonious environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders to coexist.
