City’s commuter service gets welcome reprieve

Palmerston North City Mayor Grant Smith is thrilled at the outcome of KiwiRail’s decision to keep the Capital Connection running for another three years.

“It’s fantastic, not only for regular commuters, but for those who want to travel to the Capital using public transport,” he said. “It’s still very much a ‘use it or lose it’ situation, so I want to encourage residents to enjoy the experience of using the Capital Connection,” Mayor Smith said.

KiwiRail made the announcement last night stating the extended service was a result of a funding contribution from both Horizons Regional Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Mayor Smith said it was great work from everyone involved, from politicians and councils to the public.

“It’s a service the city’s residents feel strongly about keeping. I want to especially thank Horizons Regional Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council and KiwiRail.”

The news follows the announcement of a $34million increase in NZTA funding for roads in the city and region.

“The LED street lighting project will be a great investment for our city and cut our energy costs in the medium to long-term,” Mayor Smith said. “I’m also really pleased the $1.6m Palmerston North to Feilding shared pathway through Bunnythorpe would be supported. I am disappointed about Stony Creek Road and Fergusson Street programmes missing out again, we have more work to do there. Overall an excellent win of investment for Palmerston North city”

ENDS

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