A rectangular grid pattern was imposed early in Sydney's development, and the roads radiating out into open country followed the ridges rather than compass points as in American cities. The rail net began developing in 1850 and became the determinant of the direction of expansion rather than the automobile. (See Map for overall spread of Sydney, including rail and highways.) Trams and harbor ferries challenged trains as providers of transportation. The inner area of Sydney, south of Port Jackson remained the focus by providing employment in commerce, transport, manufacturing, and government. The first Harbour Bridge was built in 1932 to connect the CBD to the north shore. After about 1930, car ownership increased along with the population growth. They followed the patterns of rail usage, and the suburbs sprawled considerably to their present limits. (See Map for transportation patterns.)
For those not using cars or buses, Circular Quay and Central Station provide important transportation access points for those traveling into and out of innermost Sydney. North Shore inhabitants can ferry to Circular Quay, while those who live South of the city can arrive by the suburban train into Central Station.
The newest form of transportation in the City of Sydney is the monorail. For a full review of its planning, purpose, and function, follow this link.
