Why do an integrated transport strategy?

Local governments are constantly active in integrated transport.
Most actions will have a transport implication of some sort.

Doing an integrated transport strategy will

• recognise and value all the good work being done
• make sure that all actions are aligned to broader goals
• link into other council activities that are affected by transport
• inform discussions with external agencies

Transport is a single task

The transport function is a single task with many component parts.
Currently the component parts suffer from fragmented ownership and management.
Coordinating all components modes will get the best result.
A single integrated transport strategy helps reduce competition and duplication so the transport function is streamlined and operates efficiently.
When investing, it can happen that works to facilitate one mode may in fact inhibit others.
An integrated plan can ensure investment is directed to benefit all modes and related activities

Do good, not harm

Transport systems can generate many community benefits
They can also do a lot of harm
Much of the damage can present as difficulties for local governments - congestion, accidents, parking pressure, land occupation, pollution, social isolation, and more.
An integrated transport strategy can identify the potential impacts of all modes and direct expenditure to maximise the benefits and minimise the damage.
Local governments can use an integrated transport strategy to achieve community benefits beyond transport. Well managed transport systems will

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Build activity into daily life for a community health benefit
• Limit transport-related accidents
• Enable greater social connections, natural surveillance, safety
• Allow more equitable access to facilities for all people

Negotiate better outcomes

Local governments need to be able to negotiate effectively on behalf of their communities with

• the public sector - state and federal governments
• the private sector - private operators and developers

Local governments also need to have informed discussions with

• neighbouring municipalities
• the community
• their own departments or business units

An integrated transport plan can provide an effective tool by which a local government can make its wishes understood and set the broader agenda against the often single purpose focus of an agency or interest group.

Of course local governments have only a small role and limited budget for managing the transport systems that affect their municipality.
However they can be proactive and use their representative power to influence decision makers to maximise beneficial community outcomes.

Local governments are in fact doing this work all the time.
An integrated transport strategy will enable local governments to draw together the many threads within their sphere of influence, and get the best value out of the work they do.