Preferred option

Preferred option

The preferred strategic option is a public transport led approach, where public transport services and infrastructure are provided ahead of demand in order to encourage greater public transport use. The focus of investment shifts from state highway construction into public transport improvements, behaviour change, walking and cycling and local roads.

The preferred strategic option supports the planned intensification of development in growth centres which will be well served by public transport.  Developments in new growth areas can proceed on the basis that public transport services will be in place as the development is taken up.  The Auckland region would be better placed to cope with oil price volatility and reduce transport-related carbon dioxide emissions.

Main components of the preferred strategic option are:

• Improve the Rapid Transit Network and Quality Transit Network networks by:
• electrifying the rail network and connecting to Manuaku City Centre and Onehunga
• constructing the CBD rail loop
• constructing a rail loop to Auckland Airport
• constructing an Avondale to Onehunga rail connection
• extending the Northern Busway to Orewa
• developing the Panmure-Botany-Manukau bus connection
• developing the Henderson-Westgate-Albany bus connection.
• Integrated public transport ticketing and fares
• Higher frequency of services on the RTN and QTN
• Continuing growth in behaviour change initiatives
• Improve the road network by:
• completing the Western Ring Route
• constructing the Auckland Manukau Eastern Transport Initiative
• improve airport road access
• Widespread arterial road improvements focused on public transport and the regional strategic freight network.

Other important elements include:

• walking and cycling improvements such as completion of the regional cycle network,
• improved inter-regional linkages to Northland, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, and
• road safety and rural transport improvements.

The preferred strategic option includes introducing parking measures in centres across the region which are planned for growth and have good public transport.