Don't put off cheering up lower Cuba St

A key change from our original proposal to reroute buses through Manners Mall to improve public transport was better public space in lower Cuba Street.

Delays due to legal action mean Mayor Prendergast has announced that the full redesign of lower Cuba Street is impossible to implement before the Rugby World Cup.

Cr Celia Wade-Brown urges Council staff to investigate temporary improvements so shared space can be initiated as soon as the bus route moves.

"We made a bargain that the loss of public space in Manners Mall would be compensated for nearby. I believe that the shared street concept can be trialled before the Rugby World Cup."

When New York explored making parts of Manhattan more pedestrian-friendly, they trialled it with moveable items on a minimal budget. They unpacked seats, pots with trees and people flocked to the revamped spaces, including Times Square and Broadway.

"Giant flowerpots with shrubs, heavy macrocarpa benches, painted surfaces and some artwork could make a big difference", says Celia Wade-Brown. "We'll have to choose sturdy ones for Wellington's wind!"

After use in lower Cuba Street, where design and parking can be modified until walkers and retailers are both happy, the moveable items could be used in other areas of the city while more permanent improvements are made to lower Cuba Street.

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/sidewalks/pedestrian_projects.shtml

ENDS

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