Public to have their say on transport projects

North Shore City Council will begin public consultation on road upgrades and bus priority measures for Milford and the Wairau/Taharoto corridor in the coming months.

"Improvements in these areas are crucial for the movement of all forms of transport in North Shore City - particularly buses going to Takapuna and accessing the Busway," works and environment committee chairperson, Joel Cayford, says.

"We need the views of the public to help us get the best possible plans in place to allow cars, buses, cyclists and pedestrians to move freely around these spots."

Council officers have identified nine separate stages of work needed to upgrade the Wairau/Taharoto corridor, of which the first two - road widening in front of Westlake Girls' High School and reconstruction of the Shakespeare/Taharoto/Wairau intersection - are top priorities.

Alternatives being considered for the corridor include transit lanes, bus-only lanes, cycle lanes, road widening, landscaping and improvements to intersections.

In Milford, a southbound transit lane on East Coast Rd is planned, along with improved bus, cycle and pedestrian facilities, particularly in the shopping and business district.

Alternatives include a transit lane for part or all of East Coast Rd, off-road shared cycle and pedestrian paths, signalised crossings and road widening.

Both projects will aim to improve traffic flow and encourage greater use of public transport, cycling and walking.

"When the residents and key stakeholders have had a chance to give feedback on alternatives for both these projects, consultants will come up with preferred options that take into account their views," Joel Cayford says.

"No decisions will be made until preferred options come before the council for consideration later this year."

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