By Lynda Myer
In order to overhaul Wellington’s transport infrastructure, the New Zealand government has chosen light rail and a new tunnel as its preferred option.
Including a light rail network from the railway station in downtown Wellington to Island Bay on the south coast, the scheme is estimated to cost NZ$7.4bn (US$4.6bn). Moreover, a new four-lane vehicle and public transport tunnel through Mount Victoria, which divides the central city from its eastern suburbs and airport, is a content of this plan, while the existing two-lane tunnel is due to be converted into a cycling and pedestrian route.
According to Grant Robertson finance minister:” This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape Wellington’s future, align transport and urban development, and help to address the climate crisis by moving more people with fewer vehicles. The southern light rail option is our preferred choice for Wellington because of the significant potential it offers for new housing and neighborhood growth.”
As a part of the Let’s Get Wellington Moving program, the plan must now be agreed upon by the capital’s city and regional councils before work can commence on a detailed business case which is expected to be completed by 2024.
While the determined date for beginning this project’s construction is 2028, it will be funded by the government and the two councils.
