Key Takeaways
- Cyclists in Auckland are feeling frustrated and neglected due to poor infrastructure planning, including the placement of a pole in a cycle lane
- The pole, part of the Strand Optimisation Project, has been placed 500mm from the kerb, allegedly in accordance with Auckland Transport specifications
- NZTA claims there is enough room for cyclists and pedestrians to navigate around the pole, but will conduct a safety audit in the new year
- This incident is not isolated, with a similar issue occurring in Hobsonville, West Auckland, where a safety sign was placed in the middle of a shared-use path
Introduction to the Issue
The placement of a pole in a cycle lane in Auckland has sparked outrage and frustration among cyclists, who feel that their needs are being neglected in favor of other transport users. The pole, which is part of the Strand Optimisation Project, has been described as "bizarre", "disheartening", and "frustrating" by cyclists, who argue that it creates a hazard and makes it difficult for them to use the lane safely. This incident is just one example of the challenges faced by cyclists in Auckland, who often feel that they are treated as "second-class citizens" and that their needs are not being taken into account in transport planning.
The Pole Placement Controversy
The pole in question has been placed 500mm from the kerb, allegedly in accordance with Auckland Transport specifications and design drawings. However, cyclists argue that this placement is not safe and creates a hazard, particularly for those who are traveling at speed or are unfamiliar with the route. The placement of the pole has been described as "disheartening" and "frustrating" by cyclists, who feel that it shows a lack of understanding of their needs and a lack of commitment to providing safe and functional infrastructure. Despite the controversy, NZTA claims that there is plenty of room for cyclists and pedestrians to navigate around the pole, and that the design is functional and safe for all users.
Response from Authorities
In response to the controversy, NZTA has stated that the pole was erected in accordance with Auckland Transport specifications and design drawings. The agency has also stated that its safety team will carry out a safety audit in the new year to ensure that the design is functional and safe for all users. Auckland Transport, on the other hand, has declined to comment on the issue, stating that it is part of the State Highway 16-The Strand shared use path project, which is being led by NZTA. This lack of accountability and transparency has only added to the frustration and anger felt by cyclists, who feel that their concerns are not being taken seriously.
Similar Incidents
Unfortunately, this incident is not isolated. Just weeks ago, a safety sign was placed in the middle of a new shared-use path in Hobsonville, West Auckland, causing frustration and anger among cyclists. In that case, Auckland Transport admitted that the positioning of the sign was "far from ideal" and that the contractor had put it in the wrong spot. This incident highlights the need for greater attention to detail and a greater commitment to providing safe and functional infrastructure for cyclists. It also raises questions about the level of accountability and transparency within transport agencies, and the need for greater consultation and engagement with cyclists and other stakeholders.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The placement of the pole in the cycle lane in Auckland is a clear example of the challenges faced by cyclists in the city. It highlights the need for greater attention to detail, a greater commitment to providing safe and functional infrastructure, and a greater level of accountability and transparency within transport agencies. As NZTA conducts its safety audit in the new year, it is hoped that the agency will take the concerns of cyclists seriously and work to address the issues that have been raised. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a transport system that is safe, functional, and equitable for all users, regardless of their mode of transport. By working together and prioritizing the needs of all users, we can create a better, more sustainable transport system for everyone.
