Overwhelming Support for Two Tunnels Miramar, Wellington 2010:

Miramar resident Simon ‘Swampy’ Marsh’s survey of Eastern Suburb resident’s desire for an additional Mount Victoria Tunnel has so far generated a 91% positive response.

Simon says many residents took the opportunity to comment. Typically those doing so said; “Too bloody right and sooner than 15 years I hope” and “It’s a no brainer”. Others suggested that the solution to congestion lay with light rail as opposed to more cars.

Older residents often referred to the short-sighted decision to shelve an additional tunnel 35 years ago when a pilot tunnel was begun and then abandoned.

Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike are fed up with the current traffic backups, fumes and noise and expect an additional tunnel to cater for all three modes of transport.

NZTA recently announced that planning for an additional tunnel is in progress. However, any improvements to what has been described as the busiest stretch of two lane highway in New Zealand is currently at the bottom of the list for attention. Fifteen years is one estimate of the time it will take for the project to be completed and a second tunnel become a reality.

The survey has now reached over a thousand people from Kilbirnie, Miramar and Seatoun and replies have come through email, personal contact and the post. Further survey fliers will be distributed over the next four weeks or people can vote online at http://www.Swampymarsh.co.nz

ENDS

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