I have read the recent letters to the editor about fuel consumption.
Whoever you agree with, or whatever party you vote for, there is no denying that the 21 raised pedestrian crossings that have yet to be completed on SH2 under the Waka Kotahi improvement plan will indeed have no positive impacts on fuel consumption. Costing an average of $300,000 each, it must be an environmental disaster right there.
The speed bumps will have more impact on the environment than the stupidity of the reduced speed.
Raised pedestrian crossings are no safer for pedestrians using that crossing. Slowing down and accelerating an extra 21 times is the worst thing you can do for fuel consumption.
Also something to consider is the noise pollution coming from trucks using their air brakes while trying to drive more economically, and the road maintenance required after 53-tonne trucks go banging over the crossing.
These problems also affect all other vehicles. Applying the brakes to slow down releases carbon dust off the brakes that get washed down storm water drains. Travel times increase and vehicle maintenance goes up.
Just a few other things to think about, and the list goes on.
Aaron Slight MNZM
Masterton
Finding a limit
Those who claim that driving at 80kph damages the economy might reflect that from 1973 to 1986, when 80kph was the open road speed limit, this country’s economy was in much better shape than it is now. Hardly anybody was hungry or had to sleep in a car.
John Rhodes
Greytown
Previously passed
I write to correct Mr Famularo on incorrect facts.
Current work to alleviate Featherston flooding was passed by the previous council, not Mayor Connelly. No specific spending on Featherston flooding alleviation has been passed by the current council. Indeed, a proposal for additional spending was voted down, with only Crs Bosley, Plimmer and Grey advocating for a higher level of infrastructure investment.
Alex Beijen
Martinborough
People have spoken
In reply to Richard Dahlberg’s latest regular rhetoric, I say this: Does he think folk hadn’t thought carefully before they went to the polls recently?
Most of his opinions are doom and gloom and also insult our tāngata whenua and other New Zealanders who have sacrificed so much to retain our special uniqueness. The people have spoken, so let’s be positive and ensure all walks of life are supported, especially our vulnerable, or am I missing the point?
Cheryl Cavanagh
Masterton
Working as one
In reply to Richard Dahlberg’s letter published in the Wairarapa Times-Age on October 19. I would like to remind him that it was the majority who gave the power to Labour three years ago and through their idealism, which included giving more power to the minority, undemocratically and with a separatist policy, that caused them to crash out at this election.
Maybe they were trying to move too fast.
All New Zealanders want are laws and policies designed to encourage one country working as one, growing and thriving together. We don’t need a government or letters like yours that causes divisiveness. Haven’t we had enough of politicians who pitch Maori vs. non-Mori, rich vs poor, employees vs employers, and tenants vs landlords etc?
For every problem we need to be asking “Why” at least four times before we get to the real root cause of the problem. If the statistics are looking bad for some, then intervention is required based on need alone. I disagree with your final comment that all New Zealanders should feel afraid. After last weekend’s result, we should feel relieved and thankful.
Tim Horsbrugh
Carterton
