Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Plans for a new transport environment for Queenstown’s busiest intersection opened for submissions earlier this month. Queenstown people are encouraged to get their ideas to Waka Kotahi and QLDC in the next week (see email and web link below).
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and Queenstown Lakes District Council lodged the Notices of Requirement with the Council in December.
This is a joint application to designate additional land for the improvements which will allow for safer streets and better public transport infrastructure.
The plans are part of the New Zealand Upgrade Programme which proposes making significant changes to the roading network in Frankton, the entrance to Queenstown.
This includes replacing the State Highway 6/6A roundabout with a signalised intersection, adding bus lanes, expanding the existing bus hub and improving access for pedestrians and cyclists.
AT A GLANCE:
The proposed traffic signals at the SH6/SH6A intersection will make it safer for drivers, pedestrians, and people on bikes. It will also help improve the flow of traffic into and out of Queenstown’s town centre. The bus lanes will connect into and have priority at the new intersection. Key features include:
- Roundabout replaced with traffic signals
- Shared paths for cyclists and pedestrians
- Improved access to Frankton Golf Centre
- Bus lanes to support public transport efficiency
- Safer access on to SH6/Kawarau Road from Gray Street
The proposed extension to the bus hub will allow space and efficiency for better public transport options for Queenstown as the population grows and as services and routes increase. Key features include:
- Increased number of bus bays
- Dedicated tourist operator bays
- Dedicated taxi stands
- Dedicated entry and exit points to SH6
- Additional space for bus users
- New and upgraded bus shelters
- New information and ticket booth
- Facilities for drivers
Public transport
In addition to Waka Kotahi providing infrastructure for public transport, the Otago Regional Council is working on the Queenstown Public Transport Detailed Business Case. It will cover detailed analysis of how bus routes and the fleet will evolve over the next 15 years. Its scope includes the likely demand for services, quality of service, additional public transport infrastructure, asset ownership, system management and labour supply and future funding.
