New material for North Shore City cycleways

August 27, 2004

North Shore City Council is pioneering a new material on East Coast Rd to highlight intersections and 'high-conflict' areas for cyclists between the Northcross shops and Lonely Track Rd.

The new material, called Tyregrip GS, is a synthetic textured surface, designed to give better grip for cyclists when braking. It will have a distinctive green colour to improve the safety and visibility of the cycle lane. This is particularly important in higher-risk zones, such as intersections and high traffic areas.

"Sometimes cars don't see cyclists or don't leave space for them at intersections or busy T-junctions," North Shore City Council transport planner, Aimee Mackay, says.

"When these hazard areas are marked green, cyclists will know to be aware of turning traffic, and drivers will be aware that they are about to move into a cycle lane, so they need to leave space and watch out for cyclists."

North Shore City's East Coast Bays and Albany Community Boards played significant roles to ensure the cycleway was completed, and the high-conflict areas identified.

Aimee Mackay says: "The council's Strategic Cycle Plan makes it clear that it is important to provide quality cycle facilities and increase safety for our cyclists.

"Using this material gives cyclists superior grip, and improves the profile of cyclists at busy intersections and junctions," she says

"By marking hazardous areas of the lane in a distinct colour we can define the cyclists' space and reduce the risk of collisions between cyclists and vehicles. The green areas make cycling visible as a transport option, and can encourage and promote safer cycling in general."

North Shore City's works and environment committee chairperson, Joel Cayford says, "Council is keen to promote cycling, and our strategy is to make it as safe as possible by providing quality facilities for our citizens. We want car drivers to be aware of cyclists, and we want cyclists to beware of cars."

The work on the East Coast Rd cycle lane should be completed by the end of September.

"We will continue to use this material to highlight areas in cycle lanes throughout the City. North Shore City Council has allocated $1.3m for cycle projects over the next three years," says Councillor Cayford.

ENDS

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