Instructions:
This assignment will consist of a CBA task worth 30% (spreadsheet and report) and a reflective writing worth 10% for a total of 40% of your final grade. The case study can be done individually or as a group. Please note that this task is a significant amount of work for an individual, so groups are encouraged.
The assignment must be submitted electronically through the Online Submission links in the Assessment section of the Course Blackboard site.
• Part 1 MUST be submitted as an Excel file (.xls or .xlsx) - only one submission per group is required.
• Part 2 MUST be submitted as a Word file (.doc or docx) - only one submission per group is required.
• Part 3 MUST be submitted as a Word file (.doc or .docx) - student must submit their own reflective task for marking.
Further details to be announced on Blackboard.
Groups must be finalised by 5pm, 31 October. No changes are allowed after this date.
Remember that each value should be entered into the spreadsheet only once.
Marked out of 80 points (weighted to 40% of your final grade).
Background:
As local councils recognise the growing importance of sustainable infrastructure, there is increasing emphasis on delivering projects that promote active and healthy lifestyles. This includes ensuring the development of pedestrian and cyclist-friendly spaces, which not only support individual well-being but also foster environmental sustainability and community cohesion.
Brisbane City Council is considering the construction of a new green bridge connecting two key suburbs: St Lucia and West End. The bridge will provide dedicated pedestrian and cyclist pathways, encouraging active travel and reducing car dependency. To evaluate the investment, the council has requested a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) to determine the feasibility of the project.
As part of this analysis, the council expects you to examine the potential costs involved in building and maintaining the bridge, along with the expected benefits to the community and environment. Additionally, the CBA should assess how the project aligns with broader sustainability goals, including Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic commitments and local environmental regulations.
The green bridge is expected to be operational by the start of 2028, with a 20-year operational timeline. The initial capital investment is scheduled for 2025, with additional infrastructure enhancements planned for 2026. In your report to the council, you will need to present the findings from the Investor, Social, and Disaggregated analyses. Your report should also draw on relevant literature or case studies on the external benefits of sustainable transport infrastructure, supporting the council’s goal of enhancing active transport and community connectivity.
Part 1- Spreadsheet Task - 30 marks (15%)
[Use the template Excel File on the BB website]
a) Market and Investor Analysis
The proposed development of the green bridge represents a significant investment in enhancing connectivity and promoting sustainable transport within the community. This project aims to create a vital link for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active travel while reducing reliance on motor vehicles. To realise this vision, the council has outlined a comprehensive plan that includes the construction of the bridge and essential amenities to support its operation.
Before commencing the development, the council recognises the necessity of seeking legal advice to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and contractual obligations. This legal consultation is projected to incur costs of $95,000. Alongside these legal fees, the council will invest in critical infrastructure, including the main construction cost of the bridge at $12,000,000, restroom facilities at a cost of $50,000, a lighting system for safety at $65,000, and safety fencing valued at $125,000. Additionally, bike racks will be installed at a cost of $50,000.
A key component of the project involves the construction of three retail spaces, with a construction cost of $75,000 per lot, providing opportunities for local businesses and enhancing community engagement.
Further to this, to create a welcoming environment, the council plans to enhance the surrounding landscape with green spaces, allocating $150,000 for landscaping in 2026. Additionally, the council will need to purchase the following items in 2026:
- One complete set of maintenance tools to assist in the upkeep of the site at a total cost of $5,000.
- A bridge inspection vehicle at the cost of $75,000.
- 200 litres of fuel at $2.30 per litre to initially fuel the worksite vehicle.
- 100 kilograms of fertiliser at $19.00 per kilogram for the green plants landscape.
- 50% of the totalarea of 3,200 square meters will be painted and coated at a cost of $150 per square meter.
As part of the project, the council will need to invest in working capital in 2027 to assist in maintenance of the facilities. The working capital items have been provided in Table 1.
Item |
Units |
Price Per Unit |
Fuel (litre) |
100 |
$2.30 |
Fertilizer (per kg) |
80 |
$19.00 |
Landscaping |
1 |
$85,000.00 |
Painting and Coating |
3200 |
$150 |
Table 1: Working Capital
In addition to the working capital, the council expects the following operating costs:
Item |
Units |
Price Per Unit |
Utilities (/month) |
12 |
$2,500 |
Painting and Coating |
3200 |
$120 |
Repair & Maintenance (/month) |
12 |
$150 |
Miscellaneous |
12 |
$1,000 |
Fuel (litres) |
150 |
$2.30 |
Fertilizer (per kg) |
120 |
$19.00 |
Table 2: Operating Costs