2 April 2007

Rolling out the red carpet for pedestrians

Alfred Street pedestrians became the priority today after Auckland City Council's decision to restrict vehicles to make the street safer for students and staff who use it came into effect.

Auckland City Mayor Dick Hubbard and University of Auckland Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart McCutcheon led a walk across the street with students supportive of the change.

"Our move to restrict access to vehicles and limit speeds to 10km/h on Alfred Street means students will enjoy safer pedestrian access to university facilities."

"Alfred Street's changes are the first step in the central transit corridor (CTC) project which will create faster bus services and better bike and pedestrian facilities to connect key locations in the CBD," says Mr Hubbard.

The vice-chancellor believes the changes will also improve safety and that banning cars and motorcycles from Alfred Street will bring together busy sectors of the city campus.

"The removal of what is now a crowded and dangerous thoroughfare for cars can only improve the environment for students, staff and visitors," says Professor Stuart McCutcheon.

All vehicles are restricted except existing bus services, bikes, emergency and service vehicles accessing Alfred Street. The council's decision was part of a memorandum of understanding with the University of Auckland to improve pedestrian safety and reduce congestion in the busy thoroughfare.

There will be additional parking created on Symonds and Princes streets. Making Alfred Street safer for pedestrians requires minor works such as kerb extensions and pavement smoothing. The works have been designed to ensure that the heritage trees in the area are not disturbed.

ENDS

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