Brett Hudson - Transport
23 May 2019
Improved cycleways should be welcomed, but not at the expense of the rest of Wellington’s transport system, National’s
Associate Transport spokesperson Brett Hudson says.
“The Petone-Ngauranga shared path is a worthy investment to improve cycling and walking infrastructure along that
stretch of highway between Wellington and Lower Hutt.
“But we have to make sure we are building practical and cost-effective infrastructure, not gold-plated testaments to
transport ideologies.
“We are seeing a lot of enthusiasm from the Government for walking and cycling projects but a limited amount of clear
commitments for congestion-busting road projects.
“We must also be careful to ensure people across the Wellington region are getting value from the rates and fuel taxes
they pay to fund such projects.
“Motorists on SH2 will pay for this cycle and walkway project, yet the Government has ignored the possibility of adding
an extra Wellington-bound lane to the motorway at the same time.
“That will do nothing for the mood of the people paying the bills while they’re stuck in traffic, who are waiting for
improvements like the Melling Interchange and Petone to Grenada link.”
ends