Media Release

September 2, 2008

Moves to improve bus efficiency in Waitakere

Waitakere City Council is trialling GPS-technology to ease buses through busy intersections as it continues its drive to improve public transport.

The council is working with the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) to trial a signal-pre-emption system for buses using Lincoln Rd, one of Waitakere’s busiest roads.

Traffic light signals at several intersections along the stretch have been fitted with a device that detects when a bus is approaching and adjusts the light phases accordingly.

If the lights are about to turn red they are instructed to stay green until the bus passes through the intersection while the green light phase can be extended by up to 10 seconds.

The system has been devised to manage intersections efficiently without impacting negatively on the network so road users are unlikely to notice the difference.

If results of the trial show genuine efficiencies council will consider implementing the system permanently.

The council and ARTA are also in the process of installing 47 electronic signs at city bus stops which will feature real-time information on impending bus arrivals.

The signs are expected to be switched on this month.

The combined benefits of both systems are expected to lead to better reliability of service and more accurate information about arrival and departure times, encouraging more people to use public transport.

These latest developments are part of the council’s ongoing commitment to have a first class, integrated public transport system that provides fast, effective services to suit the needs of its residents.

Waitakere residents have numerous public transport options at their disposal, from a ferry service between Westpark Marina to Downtown Ferry Terminal in Auckland City, to buses and passenger train services.

Park and ride facilities are also being developed at local railway stations and the city boasts a network of walking and cycle tracks.

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