Busway decision a regional triumph

Regional Land Transport Committee Chair Councillor Catherine Harland welcomes Transfund's announcement to fund the Northern Busway as a triumph for the region.

“The funding hoops have now been cleared and yet another essential part of the core regional passenger transport network is set to become reality,” says Cr Harland.

“The Busway is the northern arm of the region’s rapid transit network. Its development goes hand in hand with investment in the region’s rail system," she says. "Both projects have been debated for decades but delivery is now, well and truly, the name of the game.”

The decision by Transfund to approve $180m in funding provides for the physical infrastructure of the busway but services are also planned. The Auckland Regional Council is currently consulting the public on a substantial review of northern bus services which includes routes to support the opening of Albany and Constellation busway stations due for completion in mid-late 2005.

“Submissions on the proposed services close on Friday 2 July and after considering feedback, the ARC plans to call tenders in time for new services to commence in April 2005,” says Cr Harland.

“These new services will be visible proof of the region’s commitment to integrated passenger transport and the Northern Busway - a transformation long overdue.”

For further information on North Shore and Hibiscus Coast bus services consultation, residents and bus users can:

Call Rideline on 366 6400

Visit www.rideline.co.nz/eventsandlatestnews

Email northernreview@arc.govt.nz

Or write to:

North Shore and Hibiscus Coast Bus Review

Project Manager

Auckland Regional Council

Private Bag 92012

Auckland

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