Key Takeaways:
- The proposed second Mt Victoria Tunnel in Wellington is estimated to take 6-8 years to construct and will cost multi-billions of dollars.
- The project aims to reduce travel times for trips from outside the city to the airport, CBD, or hospital by up to 10 minutes at peak times.
- The plan includes a second Mt Victoria Tunnel with two eastbound lanes and a walking and cycling path, a second Terrace Tunnel with two southbound lanes, and changes to the Basin Reserve.
- Wellington City Councillor Geordie Rogers criticizes the project, saying it will not fix Wellington’s traffic woes and that there are easier solutions such as congestion charging or improving public transport.
- The project is being considered for Fast-Track consenting, and public feedback is open until December 14.
Introduction to the Project
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has proposed a multi-billion dollar project to build a second Mt Victoria Tunnel in Wellington, which is expected to take approximately 6-8 years to construct. The project aims to reduce travel times for trips from outside the city to the airport, CBD, or hospital by up to 10 minutes at peak times. The plan includes a second Mt Victoria Tunnel with two eastbound lanes and a walking and cycling path, a second Terrace Tunnel with two southbound lanes, and changes to the Basin Reserve. However, not everyone is convinced that the project is the solution to Wellington’s traffic problems.
Criticism of the Project
Wellington City Councillor Geordie Rogers is one of the critics of the project, saying that it will not fix Wellington’s traffic woes. He believes that the solution to Wellington’s traffic problems lies in other areas, such as congestion charging or improving public transport, which could be implemented much quicker and would be more feasible for Wellington. Rogers also criticizes NZTA’s secrecy around the plans and timeline, saying that there has been a significant amount of information lacking from NZTA’s consultation. He warns that the disruption from a decade of preparation and works will make it incredibly difficult for the city centre to stay alive.
Project Details
The proposed project includes several major components, including a second Mt Victoria Tunnel with two eastbound lanes and a walking and cycling path, a second Terrace Tunnel with two southbound lanes, and changes to the Basin Reserve, including grade separation of state highway and local traffic. The plan also proposes three lanes on Vivian St in the city centre. The changes would shorten travel times for trips from outside the city to the airport, CBD, or hospital by up to 10 minutes at peak times. The project is being considered for Fast-Track consenting, and public feedback is open until December 14.
Government Support
The Government has expressed support for the project, with Transport Minister Chris Bishop saying that the current roading layout causes frustration and delay to people just trying to live their lives and go about their day. Bishop has said that the Government will have more to say on a clear plan for delivery, including prioritisation for funding and delivery, in the coming months. The project is part of the Government’s Roads of National Significance programme, which is expected to cost $56 billion if delivered in full over the next 20 years.
Tolling and Funding
The roads would likely be tolled, Bishop earlier said, noting that it would allow for further revenue stream to fund the investment, as well as ongoing revenue for maintenance. NZTA said public consultation would be undertaken on tolling once construction funding is confirmed. The investment case for the plans shows that it has a benefit-cost ratio of 0.7—1.2, meaning for every dollar spent on the changes it would provide $0.70-1.20 of benefits.
History of the Project
A second Mt Victoria tunnel has been long-debated in the capital, with a pilot tunnel being bored in the 1970s but plans being shelved the following decade due to budget constraints. The debate was reignited when a second tunnel was planned in the now-killed Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM) project. The current proposal is a revised version of the previous plan, with some changes and additions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the proposed second Mt Victoria Tunnel in Wellington is a complex and contentious project that has sparked debate among stakeholders. While the Government and NZTA believe that the project will improve traffic flow and reduce travel times, critics such as Geordie Rogers argue that it will not fix Wellington’s traffic woes and that there are easier and more feasible solutions available. As the project moves forward, it will be important to consider the concerns and feedback of the public and to ensure that the project is delivered in a way that benefits the city and its residents.
