Chris Bishop
National List MP based in Hutt South

Big boost for Hutt rail commuters

Chris Bishop, National List MP based in Hutt South, today welcomed National’s $37 million commitment to a range of commuter rail upgrades in the Wellington region.

“I’m very pleased that National will implement full double tracking on the Hutt Valley Line between Upper Hutt and Trentham. The 3 kilometre long single section of track is a major constraint on the network and puts pressure on timetables throughout the system, as well as creating reliability issues.

“Today’s announcement means $22 million will be spent on new track and signals. This will improve reliability and timeliness of trains for Hutt and Wairarapa commuters.”

“I’m also pleased to see a commitment for new park and ride facilities. As someone who regularly takes the train myself from the Hutt to Wellington, I know how popular “parking and riding” is for commuters. My transport survey last year showed Hutt commuters are keen to see an expansion of existing services, so this is great news.”

“National’s announcement today builds on significant investment by the government since 2008. This has included spending nearly $800 million electrifying the network, the new Matangi train units which have been a real hit with commuters, double tracking and electrifying the line to Waikanae, and $98.4 million in Budget 2017 for the wider network.”

“On time performance has improved significantly, and rail patronage is growing at around 4-5% per year.

“Today’s announcement is great news for the Hutt.”

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