MEDIA STATEMENT
17 March 2004

IA Awards $1.8m For Walking And Cycling Projects

Statement made by John Robertson, Chairman, Infrastructure Auckland

Infrastructure Auckland today offered a grant of $1.8 million to Auckland City Council for walking and cycling improvements in its suburbs of Grafton, Avondale, Otahuhu and Panmure.

The improvements include such elements as walkways, cycle tracks, safety barrier fences and pedestrian refuges. They are aimed at improving the ability to walk and cycle to and around the centres of the above suburbs.

The end result is a reduction in traffic congestion through walking and cycling routes that are better used because they are safer, more convenient and better integrated with public transport.

The projects are expected to increase the proportion of non-motorised trips – from 19% of total trips to 25% over a 20 year timeframe. This means nearly 10,000 people using these facilities each day.

Ends.