RPA Press Release - The Green Line - One Month On ....

P&L

Just got this in my inbox this morning...

The RPA today announced that it is delighted with the uptake of services during the first month of passenger services on the Green Line.

Since payment services commenced on 5 July some 700,000 passengers have been served. This figure does not include the 440,000 passengers served during the initial free period.

“We are delighted with how quickly the people of Dublin have taken to Luas, surpassing our expectations” said Frank Allen, RPA Chief Executive.

Following an initial ramp up period, during which trams operated at 10 minute frequency throughout the day, trams are now operating at 5 minute frequency during peak periods and at 7.5 minute frequency for most of the off-peak period. “The ramp up period and move to normal operating frequencies has, by international standards, worked remarkably smoothly” said Frank Allen.

The heavy emphasis placed on safety communications has also paid off. Throughout the pre-launch testing period and since the line was launched there have been no accidents of any significance. By international standards this is remarkable. However, members of the public are encouraged to continue to exercise care in the vicinity of tramways, now that high frequency testing on the Red Line is underway.

RPA and Connex have been listening to customers and are taking steps to respond to issues identified. The RPA has decided to offer free park and ride facilities for disabled persons using Luas. Luas offers maximum accessibility for disabled people due to the absence of steps and barriers. By offering free parking for customers who have disabled stickers Luas is ensuring that a possible deterrent to getting out and about has been removed. This change has already been implemented. The “keep it simple” approach is in line with that adopted in the case of persons with Department of Social and Family Affairs free travel passes who may use their passes at any time on Luas without restrictions.

The RPA and Connex have also been monitoring the use of ticket vending machines at stops. Queuing has been experienced at certain stops at certain times. The RPA and Connex have lost no time in addressing the issue - the speed of machines has been increased and Connex have launched a promotion aimed at encouraging customers to purchase tickets at retail agents. Greater familiarity with vending machines, the switch by customers to better value 7 and 30 day and annual tickets (which will reduce the number of transactions) and the introduction of the Luas smart card later this year will all serve to reduce pressure on ticket vending machines.

thejollyrodger

sounds like LUAS is proving popular dispite all the negative press. Its well worth the investment of €700 odd million and the METRO/LUAS should eventually be expanded city wide!

Flukey

Although I don't live that far away from it, I have not been on it since the free weekend, when I took a few trips. It seems to be going well by all accounts. No definite date for the Tallaght line as yet. It doesn't look like it will be rady until September by all accounts.

John R

P&L wrote:

Just got this in my inbox this morning...

A spam filter should sort that out

P&L

John R wrote:

A spam filter should sort that out