A million-dollar Masterton cycle project has been given funding approval through Waka Kotahi’s [NZTA] Transport Choices programme.
The cycle route would join Lansdowne to Kuripuni, with cycle lanes to be installed between Colombo Rd and Crayne St.
It would link three local schools and would increase the ability for students and others to use active transport to travel on Masterton’s east side.
Masterton Mayor Gary Caffell said the windfall was “an exciting win for our town”.
“This funding will help us deliver a safe alternative for local youngsters to cycle to and from school – as well as linking our northern and southern ends of town for cyclists,” he said.
“This new cycle corridor develops a network that will help Masterton create a cycle-friendly environment.
“Active transport like cycling is a great way for people to get around – reducing travel costs for families and emissions created by cars taking short journeys around town.”
Final design of the cycle lanes is yet to be confirmed, with multiple options being explored, including shared cycle and pedestrian paths and various roadside parking options.
“Any final outcomes will be decided based on available road space, and user safety for walking and cycling along the length of the route.”
Caffell said the project team involved would engage with properties that run along the proposed cycle route, and a decision on the final layout will be made early in the new year.
Waka Kotahi urban mobility manager Kathryn King said she was pleased Masterton District Council [MDC] received programme funding.
MDC applied for funding of $1.1m. The final amount granted will be subject to Waka Kotahi further scoping the project.
“The Transport Choices programme is supporting councils to give people more options in the way they travel,” King said.
“Funding criteria specified projects that would deliver strategic micro-mobility networks; create walkable neighbourhoods; support healthy school travel; or make public transport easier to use.
“The aim is to open up streets so everyone can get where they need to go in ways that are good for their health and the planet.”
Greater Wellington’s public transport arm Metlink also applied to Waka Kotahi for funding.
It received $240,000 for bike parking improvements at Masterton and Solway train stations.
To encourage bike-rail integrated travel, the cycle racks at both stations would be replaced with purpose-built bike shelters for up to 16 bicycles.
The shelters would have lighting and CCTV cameras and be positioned for good passive surveillance. Carterton District Council also stands to receive funding for an off-road trail link that will form part of the Five Towns Trail project. However, the amount was yet to be confirmed.-NZLDR
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