Eastern Corridor phase two funding commitment done deal

Auckland City Mayor John Banks today welcomed Transfund’s decision to approve Transit New Zealand’s 25 per cent share of the study, which will deliver a preferred option for developing the Eastern Transport Corridor.

“This decision by the board of Transfund means phase two of the Eastern Corridor is now fully funded and a done deal,” said Mr Banks.

“Together, Auckland City, Manukau City and Transit are committed to building the Eastern Corridor by 2010. Today’s news from Transfund brings us that much closer to the dream and gives all parties much greater certainty.”

Last month it was announced Opus International Consultants would lead the detailed phase two study to identify the best route for the corridor for both public and private transport.

Opus will identify the various options for the route and assess the environmental effects of each. The study is expected to take about a year and will involve extensive public consultation.

“Transfund’s commitment confirms the project’s potential to reduce costly congestion on State Highway One. They know doing nothing is not an option,” said Mr Banks.

The decision to fund Transit New Zealand’s share has increased Transfund’s contribution from 48 per cent to 61 per cent of the net costs of the study. Auckland and Manukau cities are committed to funding the balance of the total study costs which will be $14 million including a contingency of 15 per cent.

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