Realistic plan at last

MUCH has been written in the Mercury about the traffic congestion in Hobart with varying suggestions of alternative routes and modes of transport. At last the subject of a city tunnel featured as front page news. Surprisingly, the “full report” on page 3 consisted of a just few lines (Mercury, October 1). Let’s hear more.

The cost of an underground bypass in Hobart to ease traffic congestion may seem mind-boggling now but I fear the suggested alternatives, involving ferries, trains or an extra lane on the Southern Outlet will add to existing traffic chaos and prove even more costly in future.

It seems the preferred solution by decision makers is for residents to take alternative modes of transport. Let’s look at the fundamental issues instead. themercury.com.au readers have a new way to have their say. It’s free to use, just register and have your say. For more details and to register, visit the website.

Clearway confusion

THERE is a problem with the clearways in Hobart at peak traffic times. According to the Hobart City Council, they meet Australian Standards in terms of marking and it will not change them. Most of the cars that park in clearways are tourists (rentals) innocent of the rules. By the time anyone reads all the conditions on the signs, you’ve got a ticket for overstaying! It is a significant danger as they are effectively parking in the middle of a road. If the bays were painted in red or hashed over so that people think twice before parking, I think this would help. Heavy penalties are not the answer, as it creates a bad taste for our visitors and doesn’t prevent recurrences. Can anything be done?

One way only

GREAT that “Drivers get pass mark on bike rules” ( Mercury, October 1) but when will it become mandatory that cyclists stay within the bike lanes where they have been provided and clearly displayed? Seems like a “one way” street to me!

Wonderful hospital care

I THANK the staff at the Royal Hobart Hospital Emergency Department for the wonderful care they gave my daughter. We all make time to complain and criticise but far too often we don’t bother to praise. Well done and thank you.

Delay AFL selections

ONE has to wonder at the AFL All-Australian selections. Simpson should be the coach and Hurn the captain, as good as Buckley and Franklin may have been. By going so early with their selections, the AFL downplay the importance of the finals, which mean so much to clubs and supporters.

One final kick

WHAT could be better for a Carlton supporter, the Blues winning a game or Collingwood losing a premiership by five points? Magic.