Government Funding for Walking and Cycling Projects Reduced by Half
The government’s allocation for walking and cycling infrastructure has been reduced significantly in the latest budget. The previous budget of $910m for the 2021-2024 programme has been slashed to $460m, taking into account the impact of inflation during this period.
Kevin Kerr, the chairman of Cycle Action Tauranga, expressed relief at the new design that will finally allow completion of the Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycleway. However, he also voiced disappointment at the lack of funding from the government for new cycleways and urgent safety improvements. He emphasized the urgent need for a network of cycleways throughout the city to connect suburbs and improve safety on busy roads like Welcome Bay Rd and Turret Rd.
Kerr highlighted several areas where improvements are needed to make existing cycle paths safer for cyclists. These include better signage, more visible greenway lanes with yellow paint highlighting cyclist paths, and physical separation of cycle paths from other traffic.
Heidi Hughes, former city councillor and director of Wednesday Challenge, echoed Kerr’s sentiments by expressing disappointment at inadequate investment in alternative transport modes by the coalition Government. She emphasized that limited investment in public transport and cycling/walking infrastructure would lead to increased traffic congestion and dependency on cars as seen in Auckland.
What are the benefits of cycling infrastructure for reducing traffic congestion?
Meta Title: Demand Tauranga Council Invest in Cycling Infrastructure for a Greener City
Meta Description: Take action to demand Tauranga Council invest in cycling infrastructure to promote sustainable transportation, improve air quality, and reduce traffic congestion. Find out how to get involved and advocate for the changes your community needs.
Heading 1: Demand Tauranga Council Invest in Cycling Infrastructure
If you’re a Tauranga resident or simply a concerned citizen passionate about sustainable transportation, then it’s time to demand that Tauranga Council invest in cycling infrastructure. Cycling is a fantastic way to travel around a city, offering numerous benefits not only for individuals but also for the community and the environment. However, despite these benefits, Tauranga currently lacks the necessary infrastructure to support safe and convenient cycling. With your involvement and advocacy, we can work together to push for changes that will benefit everyone in the city.
Heading 2: The Benefits of Investing in Cycling Infrastructure
Cycling infrastructure is essential for creating a sustainable, healthy, and efficient city. Here are some of the key benefits of investing in cycling infrastructure:
- Reduced traffic congestion: Cycling infrastructure encourages more people to ride bikes instead of driving, which can help reduce traffic congestion and improve the flow of traffic on congested roads.
- Improved air quality: The more people who cycle, the fewer emissions are released into the atmosphere, resulting in better air quality for Tauranga residents.
- Health and well-being: Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that can improve physical and mental health. With safe cycling infrastructure, more people will feel encouraged to cycle for their daily commute or leisure, leading to a healthier and more active community.
- Economic benefits: Investing in cycling infrastructure can attract more tourists and businesses to the area, benefiting the local economy and creating new job opportunities.
Heading 3: How You Can Get Involved
- Write to your council members: Let your local representatives know that investing in cycling infrastructure is important to you and the community.
- Join advocacy groups: Get involved with local cycling advocacy groups that are already working to promote cycling infrastructure in Tauranga.
- Participate in public consultations: Stay informed about public consultations and hearings related to transportation and infrastructure, and voice your support for cycling initiatives.
- Encourage friends and family to join: Spread the word and encourage others to join you in advocating for better cycling infrastructure in Tauranga.
Heading 4: Case Studies
Case Study: European Cities Model
European cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen have long been known for their extensive cycling infrastructure and high levels of cycling participation. As a result, these cities have healthier, more sustainable transportation systems and enjoy numerous associated economic and social benefits.
Heading 5: Firsthand Experience
In cities around the world that have invested in cycling infrastructure, the benefits are clear. Tauranga can draw inspiration from these success stories and strive to create a safer, more accessible environment for cyclists. With the right infrastructure, Tauranga can become a model city for sustainable transportation in New Zealand.
it’s clear that investing in cycling infrastructure is a win-win for everyone. By improving the safety and convenience of cycling, Tauranga Council can create a more sustainable and vibrant city for all residents. It’s up to us to demand the changes our community needs, and together, we can make Tauranga a better place to live, work, and play. Join the movement and advocate for a greener, more bike-friendly Tauranga today.
Hughes pointed out that ongoing investment in building connected cycleways would encourage more people to use them. She stressed that public perception about overspending on cycling infrastructure is misguided since it requires less funding compared to road construction while yielding higher returns on investment.
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale acknowledged financial constraints faced by local councils but indicated willingness to consider funding if value for money can be demonstrated through reduced reliance on roads. He mentioned that tough financial times may necessitate careful decisions regarding increasing rates or funding transportation projects.
In addition to these challenges with funding allocation, recent decisions made by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will also affect future council projects related to transport infrastructure.
despite significant reductions in government funding for walking and cycling initiatives, there is an urgent need for continued investment in safe alternatives such as connected cycleways within cities like Tauranga. This will not only improve road safety but also reduce dependence on motor vehicles while promoting healthier lifestyles among citizens.
