17 October 2016

Changes on the way for K Road

Karangahape Rd is set for a major upgrade which will enhance one of Auckland’s most famous urban spaces. Auckland Transport and Auckland Council have today revealed plans for proposed changes to the street and are inviting feedback from the public.

The proposal includes a new cycleway and streetscape improvements says Ralph Webster of Auckland Council. “K Rd is such a special place which many Aucklanders have a connection with.

“The plans reflect feedback we have received from local businesses, residents, property owners as well as many other people who spend time there. We also would like to know what the wider public think of the proposal.”

The City Rail Link will have a station on Mercury Lane and a possible light rail station at the intersection with Queen St. With this in mind, a project objective is to create a vibrant space in which people will want to spend time shopping, walking and socialising.

Auckland Transport’s Cycling, Walking and Road Safety Manager Kathryn King says it’s also an important transport route into the city, so it includes a protected cycleway on both sides of the road.

The cycleway is a key component of the growing network of cycleways into and around the city centre.

“Many people already use K Rd to cycle into the city centre, so by providing a protected cycleway, we expect that number to grow. The way people get around Auckland is changing with a greater number of people choosing to cycle.

“The cycleway will also be good for local businesses as our research shows that someone cycling is more likely to stop at local shops than someone driving.”

The Karangahape Rd Enhancement Project is being delivered by Auckland Transport and Auckland Council with funding from various sources including a targeted rate to local businesses and the Government through the Urban Cycleways Programme.

Auckland Transport is working with project partners Auckland Council and the Government through the NZ Transport Agency and the Urban Cycleways Programme on a $200m programme of cycle improvements from 2015 to 2018.

Public feedback on the plans is open until 20 November. The project is in five sections which can viewed at www.AT.govt.nz/kroadproject or call 09 355 3553.

ENDS

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