Parramatta light rail faces low ridership challenges

Parramatta's light rail system is facing challenges in attracting enough commuters since its opening last December. The service, which stretches for 12 kilometers, averaged around 8,750 trips daily in February. This is far below the target of 28,000 trips per day set by Transport for NSW for next year. Initial operations showed low patronage as well. In January, during a holiday period, the line only averaged 7,015 trips per day. The total number of trips for January and February combined was around 450,000, which is not enough to sustain the service's objectives. The New South Wales (NSW) government is now seeking federal assistance to bridge a significant funding gap for an extension of the line to Olympic Park, estimated to cost $3.9 billion. Earlier projections had the cost of the first stage increase by $475 million, bringing it to $2.9 billion, with the state government reserving $2.1 billion for the second phase. Transport Minister John Graham stated that western Sydney deserves better public transport services. He emphasized the commitment to start construction on the second stage within the government’s term. Talks are ongoing with the federal government regarding funding arrangements, but no specific answers have been provided. Experts note that it may take time for user numbers to increase as people adjust their commuting habits. While the initial figures are low, there is optimism that continued population growth in the surrounding areas will make the light rail more beneficial in the future. An environmental assessment suggests the second stage will not open to passengers until 2031, despite earlier hopes for a quicker rollout. As construction progresses on key infrastructure, officials remain hopeful about boosting patronage in the coming months.