Transport funding offers big choices for Tasman

 

A significant injection of Government funding is expected to give residents of Richmond and Motueka greater and improved options for the way they travel every day. 

Transport Minister Michael Wood announced on Sunday that Tasman District Council has been successful in applying for funding for a share of the Government’s $350 million Transport Choices Package. 

The money will be administered by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and is subject to further scoping of proposed projects. 

Waka Kotahi, Manager Urban Mobility, Kathryn King is pleased Tasman has received support as part of the programme. 

“Funding criteria specified projects that would deliver strategic cycling/micro mobility networks; create walkable neighbourhoods; support healthy school travel; or make public transport easier to use.” 

One of the most dangerous cycle tracks in the region where many cyclists have been seriously injured in accidents

Tasman District Council Transportation Manager Jamie McPherson says details of exactly how much money Tasman will receive are yet to be confirmed, but he expects it will be significant in accelerating projects identified in the Walking & Cycling Strategy and Richmond Transport Programme Business Case. 

Examples of work likely to be included are;  

• Modified intersection layouts and improved crossings for pedestrians and cyclists at numerous intersections, particularly near schools, in Richmond and Motueka. Such as the Wensley/Oxford roundabout and Hill St/William St intersections 
• Town centre improvements in Motueka 
• On-street cycle lanes in Motueka  

Not much room on High Street Motueka for on-street cycle lanes 

• Bus shelters, seats, and bike racks in Richmond and Motueka. 

Jamie McPherson says tackling the decades-long trend towards car-dependency and increased traffic on our streets, and the associated safety and emissions consequences, will make Tasman a better place to live. 

“It’s all about giving people better and safer choices about how they and their families live and move around in these areas.” 

Transport Choices funding is currently indicative until Waka Kotahi works with Councils to explore how projects can be progressed in line with Transport Choices timeframes. Funding allocations may be adjusted after this consultation. 

This Transport Choices funding comes on the back of approved Waka Kotahi ‘Streets for People’ funding which is delivering on-street cycle lanes in Richmond and Mapua.

Tasman District Council

Pigeon Post News,  Richmond