Cyclists welcome investment in health and better transport
The $300 million investment in cycling announced today by Greens co-leader Russel Norman pays a triple dividend, says
Cycling Advocates Network spokesman Patrick Morgan.
"It improves our health, reduces road congestion and gives people more transport choices.”
"Better cycling is great news whether you ride a bike or not.”
"With obesity threatening to overwhelm our health system, investing in cycling is a smart move.”
Mr Morgan says there's strong public support from the 1.5 million New Zealanders who ride bikes.
"We've invested more than $100 million in the New Zealand Cycle Trails to bring more tourists to New Zealand, and the
next logical step is to improve cycling in our towns and cities, where most people live.”
"Increasing numbers of people have been pushing for better cycling infrastructure in towns and cities.”
CAN has a 3-point plan for improving cycling
1. Linking NZTA funding of local authority roading to cycling mode share
This will incentivise Councils to increase the amount of cycling by linking Government funding to cycling mode share.
2. Cycle training for all school children.
As well as making more confident cyclists, research show that trained cyclists are safer drivers.
3. A Complete Streets Bill presented to Parliament
Complete Streets is a framework aimed at creating a safe, comfortable, integrated transportation network for all people
regardless of age, ability, income or mode of transportation.
Here are some cycling projects CAN thinks would benefit greatly from increased government funding:
Auckland cycling network: routes along northern and southern motorways
Great Harbour Way between Hutt Valley and Wellington
Christchurch's 13 cycleways
Port Chalmers path, Dunedin
ENDS