Cyclists and pedestrians to share with care

March 7, 2006

Cyclists on Shakespeare Rd will now be able to ride off-road – as long as they ‘share with care’.

The new share with care path, on the southern (westbound) side of Shakespeare Rd, will open in mid-March. It allows cyclists who do not feel confident sharing the road with cars and buses – especially school children – the option to go off-road.

“We already have share with care paths in some parts of Devonport and Albany, that allow children to cycle safely,” North Shore City’s transport strategy and planning group manager, Archer Davis, says.

“The path in Shakespeare Rd will allow children from Milford School, Takapuna Normal, Carmel College and Westlake Girls’ High to cycle to school safely.”

A black surface will be laid over driveway crossings to create a continuous path along the street. The share with care path will be marked with a white line down the middle, and painted symbols to indicate cyclists on the kerb side and pedestrians on the property boundary side.

Mr Davis urged cyclists, pedestrians and drivers to take extra care while everyone was getting used to using the new path.

“We need residents on Shakespeare Rd to be careful entering and leaving their driveways and watch out for cyclists and pedestrians. Toot your horn, and leave your driveway forwards if possible.

“Cyclists and pedestrians need to keep an eye out for each other, and we’re encouraging cyclists to ring their bell or call out if they think a pedestrian hasn’t noticed them approaching.”

The Shakespeare Rd share with care path is part of a larger project that includes a westbound transit lane. Other share with care paths are planned for future projects, including Akoranga Drive and Forrest Hill Rd.

“This is all part of our focus on sustainable transport, and giving people the option of choosing to cycle, walk or take the bus.”

ENDS

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