MEDIA RELEASE
28 April 2005

Auckland’s premier street gets its first bus lane

Auckland City is getting buses moving on Queen Street with the installation of the street’s first bus lane.

The new outbound bus lane starts at Turner Street and ends just before the Karangahape Road intersection. It will be in place by Thursday 5 May.

The lane will operate between 3pm and 7pm, Monday to Friday, under new bus lane operating hours for Auckland’s CBD which reflect traffic volumes in the central city.

“Bus lanes are a proven way to get buses and their passengers moving right across the city. We’re committed to continue rolling out bus lanes to develop a rapid transit network, and Auckland’s CBD is no exception,” says Councillor Richard Simpson, chairperson of the council’s Transport and Urban Linkages Committee.

“Adjusting CBD bus lane operating hours provides flexibility to ensure each bus lane is tailored to its users.

“The first bus lane for Queen Street targets a specific area where a lot of buses and traffic compete for space. The new bus lane will reduce conflict between buses and general traffic, making it easier and safer for buses to get where they need to go,” says Mr Simpson.

The lane is 203 metres long, including bus stops, and aims to give priority to buses, cycles and motorcycles.

No parking is allowed in the bus lane during operating hours and motorists are encouraged to follow the rules for bus lanes to avoid a $150 fine.

The lane will fit within the existing road. Current parking restrictions and loading zones on the outbound lane will remain in place outside the bus lane operating hours.

More information about Queen Street’s first bus lane is available online: www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/transport

Ends