Transit New Zealand
Wellington Regional Office

MEDIA RELEASE
1 March 2007

Transit warns of temporary lane markings at Basin Reserve

Transit New Zealand is warning motorists to note new lane markings that have been laid on Rugby Street before traffic signals are introduced at Adelaide Road next week.

Transit New Zealand project manager Jonnette Adams says until the traffic signals at Adelaide Road are operational, the markings mean traffic exiting the Mount Victoria Tunnel will need to be in the right-hand lane if they wish to proceed around the Basin Reserve to head into the city.

“This is a slight change from what motorists are used to. Before they could remain in the left-hand lane after the Tunnel and choose to head straight around the Basin or turn left to Newtown.”

Ms Adams says she appreciates this may be confusing, particularly as there is a further lane cordoned off for pedestrian safety reasons. A Variable Message Sign will be placed opposite the Mt Victoria Tunnel intersection to warn motorists to choose the right-hand lane if they are going straight ahead.

At the end of next week new traffic signals at the intersection of Adelaide Road will be operational and Rugby Street will have a fourth lane available to motorists.

“The installation of new signals and an extra lane at this point will improve traffic flow around the Basin, enabling both lanes from Mt Victoria Tunnel to progress straight through onto the Bypass and north. Motorists coming from Adelaide Road will have improved access to the Basin as they will be given dedicated time to get onto Rugby Street leading to fewer delays coming from Newtown. Pedestrians and cyclists will also be able to cross Rugby Street safely as a result. It’s a win win situation.”

Ms Adams urged motorists to take extra care over the next week as they adapt to travelling around the Basin because of the altered lane markings.

“It’s a small change for a big improvement,” she says.

ENDS

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