Commuters react to Auckland’s $22 billion transport plan

A multi-billion dollar plan to revamp Auckland’s transport system is now open for public feedback – and has already received diverse responses from commuters.

The draft Auckland Transport Plan (ATP) proposes new cycleways, railways, a possible second harbour crossing, and is likely to have a major impact on commuters and taxpayers.

Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) chief executive Fergus Gammie says implementing the ATP could cost up to $22 billion.

Even without some of ARTA’s more ambitious proposals, including a rail tunnel in downtown Auckland, the plan will cost an estimated $16 billion over the next decade.

Jamie Pye and Marley Phillips use public transport daily and feel some ATP projects, like a railway from central Auckland to the North Shore, would be welcome.

While the city’s public transport could be improved, levels of spending advised by ARTA were excessive “and unfair on the rest of New Zealand”, says Pye.

ARTA has acknowledged funding is an issue, but argues that efficient, world-class transportation in Auckland is essential for New Zealand’s economic growth.

ARTA’s Sharon Hunter says that “under the current funding regime, it’s assumed” the Government will provide 60 per cent of the funds required by the ATP, with the rest probably supplied by territorial authorities in greater Auckland.

Mona and Verena Martin, from Switzerland, frequently use buses and trains in Europe, and have been doing so almost daily during their three-week holiday in Auckland.

While both agree public transport in the city is generally safe and accessible, they feel existing bus and train services are too infrequent.

Despite the recession, the Martins argue investing money in public transport is still a “good idea”.  Verena Martin expressed concern for cyclists, arguing for safer, more extensive cycleways.

Tertiary student Bene Tupou catches the train daily and feels “$22 billion is a waste of money”.

Tupou is not convinced a second harbour crossing is needed and says while a railway connecting Britomart and Auckland International Airport would be useful, ARTA should in other cases “improve on what’s already here, rather than building lots of new facilities”.

Despite some misgivings, all commuters interviewed say they will continue using public transport and though improvements are needed, $16 billion to $22 billion over the next decade seems excessive.

Public submissions on the ATP can be made until April 10 by visiting ARTA’s website, where the plan itself can be downloaded.  ARTA say copies of the draft are also available from local council offices or by calling (09) 379 4422.