THOUSANDS of commuters are to get free buses in the first service of its type in New South Wales aimed at slashing the number of cars on the road.

While others wring their hands over traffic gridlock, a local council has done what the State Government can`t and is bankrolling a ground-breaking solution.

A free shuttle bus on a loop around the Parramatta CBD at 10-minute intervals could be the forerunner of similar services in congestion hotspots around Sydney.

The shuttle, launched by Parramatta Lord Mayor Paul Barber with corporate support, will be known as The Loop and will begin operations on August 29.

Three buses and street furniture worth $1.5 million have been purchased for the service, which will cost $550,000 a year - funded through parking meter income and sponsor support from Westfield and Parramatta Leagues Club.

Mr Barber said The Loop was a free transport solution that will connect tourists, residents and commuters to the commercial, retail and recreational landmarks of the city.

The buses with a distinctive blue, red and orange motif will travel along main streets from the ferry wharf to the city shopping centre and the railway station.

"The Loop is the keystone of Parramatta City Council`s integrated transport plan," Mr Barber said.

"As the economic capital of Western Sydney, Parramatta is in need of a quick, reliable and low-pollution city transport system.

"This need is even more urgent when we consider that Parramatta will be offering up to 30,000 new jobs over the next 25 years."

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Commuters offered a free ticket to ride   08/19/2008