Metlink has released a new public transport projects map that details upcoming, ongoing, and completed projects.
Greater Wellington Regional Council [GWRC] said yesterday that the map will show “project locations and explains the work being undertaken, the agencies involved, and the benefits being delivered”.
The map will show commuters how the projects impact Metlink services.
GWRC transport chair Thomas Nash said the map is an “easy-to-read addition to our suite of digital communications tools, offering passengers a source of truth for major projects that also highlights long-term gains”.
Sixteen projects have already been loaded into the map, including several projects impacting the Wairarapa Line [WRL] services.
The three projects expected to impact the WRL include a regional infrastructure upgrade project, track and infrastructure project, and the Wellington station approaches project.
Each of these projects are in partnership with KiwiRail.
The track and infrastructure upgrade project, where all tracks are being replaced in addition to drainage and vegetation work, is almost complete, except for the tracks inside the Maoribank Tunnel [expected early 2024] and Remutaka Tunnel [expected early 2025].
The regional infrastructure upgrade project aims to improve the safety and capacity of WRL in preparation for the Lower North Island Integrated Mobility [LNIRIM] project and new hybrid trains.
New passing loops are being installed at Maymorn, Woodside and Waingawa, with a new signalling system installed between Featherston and Masterton.
A new stabling yard will be built at Masterton, and upgrades to level crossings are also included in the project.
This project is currently undergoing community engagement on level crossing closures.
New bike shelters for Solway and Masterton have also been added to the map.
The new map uses a 10-point criteria system that considers various factors such as project duration and the number of passengers affected – projects are added to the map if they meet at least three points.
Service alerts on the Metlink website and app will not be added to the map.
Metlink senior manager Bonnie Parfitt said the map will help commuters “understand the value of projects and allow them to plan ahead when works are happening”.
“We know the benefit of large-scale projects are not often noticed amid sometimes lengthy changes to bus and train services,” Parfitt said.
“The map solidifies Metlink’s commitment to informing travellers about disruptions and how finished projects will improve public transport services for their communities.”
The map can be viewed on the Metlink website by visiting metlink.org.nz/intime
