Opportunity for Highways to move to fast lane

AUCKLAND BUSINESS FORUM
Motorway Network Completion by 2015

29 June 2006

Media Release

Opportunity for State Highway construction to move into fast lane.

Completion of critical State Highway projects ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup is now a realistic goal the region can set for itself, Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett said today.

Welcoming Transit’s 5-year funded programme, “we now have certainty and can put the foot down to make substantial progress to finish the incomplete sections of motorway network by 2011.”

Confirmation of Transit’s accelerated programme will boost business confidence and the region’s economy, said Mr Barnett. There are 24 major construction projects confirmed in the programme, which will ensure continuous work for contractors, suppliers and the workforce for the foreseeable future.

“It is also reassuring that Transit has reinstated the 3rd Waitemata Harbour Crossing back into the programme as a future project. It shows they have a long-term plan for enhancing the network.”

With the exception of the Avondale section, there is now a realistic chance that the rest of the Western Ring Route can be completed by 2011. “This will help ease the traffic situation and allow for improved public transport for Auckland and the thousands of visitors expected in Auckland ahead of the Rugby World Cup,” he said.

“It is often forgotten that efficient bus services depend on a good roading network. We now also have an opportunity to get some improvement in that area,” he concluded.

ENDS

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