Have your say on the future of Auckland's transport
Aucklanders are invited to have their say on how $47 billion is spent on transport across the region over the next 30 years.
The regional transport committee today launched its draft strategy on the future of Auckland's transport for public consultation.
"We want to hear what people want out of Auckland's transport network. We all have ideas on how things could be improved and now is the time to speak up," says the committee chair, ARC Councillor Christine Rose.
Transport interest groups, community groups, organisations and members of the public are invited to have their say on the draft Regional Land Transport Strategy 2010-2040 by:
- visiting www.arc.govt.nz/rlts
- emailing rlts@arc.govt.nz
- requesting hard copies of the strategy or summary by phoning 09 366 2000
- visiting your local library or council service centres across the region.
Consultation closes on 18 December 2009 and submission hearings will take place in February 2010. Submitters have the opportunity to speak at these hearings.
Councillor Rose says the draft strategy seeks a balanced approach to transport investment, that is providing for public transport, walking and cycling as well as roads.
"Auckland needs to start making better use of the existing transport network. This means upgrading rail and bus services, increasing cycleways and encouraging more walking for short distance trips," she says.
"We need to complete the western ring route to provide an alternative to State Highway 1, but we can't continue to build new roads to overcome our transport challenge - it is prohibitively expensive and unsustainable."
The draft Regional Land Transport Strategy makes a reasonable estimate on how much funding will be available for transport in Auckland over the next 30 years, and advises how that money should be invested.
The draft strategy recommends a mix of investment to complete the strategic road network; improvement in public transport, including ferry, bus and rail; and introducing more measures to manage travel demand.
"We must build on the successes of the past decade. Bus and rail patronage has reached record highs thanks to improved frequency and priority measures, and walking school buses have seen unprecedented growth," says Councillor Rose.
Thank you for visiting the Auckland Regional Council website and giving us your feedback. We are seeking to improve the information and services available on our website in the near future and any feedback you can provide will help us greatly in this process.