Carterton District Council [CDC] is asking for community feedback on its proposal for a new cycleway to connect the town’s schools.
The proposed route starts at South End Park on Brooklyn Rd, connecting the BMX track to South End School, and moving north on SH2 to St Mary’s School and Ponatahi Christian School.
The route continues north on SH2, where it turns down Wakelin St, and goes through Carrington Park to Carterton School.
Waka Kotahi NZTA has provisionally agreed to fund the project to the tune of $918,720, part of a $350m government investment to improve transport choices for people across New Zealand.
The provisional funding is subject to a series of checks, the last of which includes approval of a detailed design, due at the end of September.
CDC has also received an additional $180,000 to provide undercover bike sheds and racks to the schools.
In her report to council’s policy and project committee, CDC community services manager Glenda Seville said the route will make cycling a safer option for school children.
“We have heard from our school community that SH2 is a major barrier to children biking to school, and we think the provision of a fully separated cycleway will also encourage our community to get on their bikes and make the short journey into town,” Seville said.
“That means fewer cars on our roads, especially at the start and end of the day. That’s a win for our community’s physical health and a win for our environment.”
Carterton mayor Ron Mark said he welcomes the opportunity to provide safer connections for students.
CDC worked with schools and affected stakeholders to develop a route that will benefit the community.
“We look forward to your feedback on the design so we can get the final sign-off on this great initiative.”
CDC is taking community feedback submissions for its final detailed design until Sunday, August 27.
Public feedback can be submitted at cdc.govt.nz/haveyoursay or by email to [email protected].
A paper form can also be collected from council offices or the Events Centre and Library.
