Griffith Arterial Road Cycleway Cost Benefit Analysis

Background

When BG&E needed economic expertise to input into its business case for developing a cycleway in the Griffith Arterial Road corridor, it turned to NineSquared to conduct a comprehensive economic analysis. This project aimed to improve active transport options and connectivity in Brisbane, aligning with the South East Queensland Principal Cycle Network Plan.

Our role

NineSquared was engaged by BG&E to undertake an economic analysis of the proposed Griffith Arterial Road Cycleway. The project aimed to develop a 7km cycleway along the Granard-Riawena-Kessels Road corridor, connecting the Ipswich Motorway Cycleway and Upper Mount Gravatt PRAC. This cycleway would link Griffith University and improve connections to adjacent cycle networks and residential areas.

The economic analysis conducted by NineSquared included a detailed cost-benefit analysis (CBA) to assess the project’s viability. The benefits monetised in the CBA included impacts on health, congestion, injuries, vehicle operating costs, noise, and travel time. These impacts were evaluated using the active transport economic appraisal tool developed for the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

Sensitivity tests and scenario analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the economic analysis results. These tests considered different discount rates, project costs, and demand assumptions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the project’s potential economic outcomes.

In addition to the monetised benefits, several qualitative impacts were assessed. Positive impacts included improved access to education, enhanced liveability, increased enjoyment factor, and greater social interaction. Negative impacts included potential traffic disruptions and health impacts for electric vehicle users.

NineSquared’s economic analysis provides valuable insights into the project’s potential benefits and costs, helping decision-makers make informed choices about its implementation.

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