February 8, 2005

Funding boost to investigate bus priority in North Shore City

North Shore City Council has received a $574,000 grant from Land Transport New Zealand to investigate ways of giving buses priority on local roads as part of the Northern Busway project.

Under the city's bus priority measure programme, the council has identified key roads where improvements are needed to help buses move around quickly and efficiently, and centres where new or improved suburban bus stations are needed.

"This programme is a part of our role in creating the Northern Busway system," North Shore City's infrastructure and environment committee acting chairperson, Chris Darby, says.

"North Shore City's bus priority measures will really be providing the 'lungs' of the Busway. It is critical that we get these linkages and connections in place, and it is great to see this significant funding allocation."

"We want buses to move freely around city streets and onto the Busway, so passengers will have a fast, efficient public transport service," he says.

"It is also important to improve suburban bus stations, so passengers have a safe, comfortable place to wait for buses, with adequate shelter and plenty of information."

"Before we can go ahead with these projects, we need to thoroughly investigate each road or centre, develop possible options and consult the community to ensure each one is the best alternative. The funding from Land Transport New Zealand will go towards this process."

ENDS

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