Bridge plans given huge boost
A pedestrian and cycle bridge across a busy section of State Highway 6 in Queenstown is a step closer after winning the backing of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
The bridge, originally proposed by Queenstown Trails and the Lightfoot Initiative, would connect Quail Rise to Glenda Drive, spanning SH6 on the rise up from Shotover Bridge.
It would be part of the Whakatipu Active Travel Network's A2 route, providing a more direct and safer route between the Shotover Country and Lake Hayes Estate subdivisions and Frankton.
Waka Kotahi has now committed to funding the bridge, subject to geotechnical investigations.
Geotechnical testing is now being undertaken to test foundation options on site, and if the plan is feasible, design plans and further community and Mana Whenua engagement will follow.
While a bridge was not included in initial plans Waka Kotahi Director of Regional Relationships, James Caygill says a scope change has been approved.
“When we listened to the community about what improvements they wanted to see in this area there was a strong preference for a bridge over the busy road. We took this feedback on board and have approval to investigate a new bridge including funding for design and construction.”
The bridge would effectively mean people can cross the historic Shotover River / Kimiākau bridge and continue on into Frankton without having to go down into the Shotover Delta or tackle the dicey road level crossing in front of Bunnings.
Geotechnical testing this week on foundation options for a proposed bridge linking Jim’s Way and Hardware Lane
Queenstown Trails CEO Mark Williams says the proposed bridge across State Highway 6 would be a valuable addition to Queenstown’s extensive cycling network.
“We’ve long advocated for a safe way for our community, especially students cycling to school, to cross the busy state highway that intersects our trails. And we’re delighted Waka Kotahi is moving ahead and considering plans to construct what will be an important piece of infrastructure for the area.”
Amanda Robinson, of Queenstown’s Lightfoot Initiative shared his views.
“State Highway 6 sits at the heart of the Active Travel network and the proposed bridge will create the connection we need to keep our community moving safely. This is a great example of what can happen when community organisations work in partnership to advocate for change. I feel confident in saying that the community appreciates Waka Kotahi's flexibility in finding solutions that will benefit us all.”
The A2 route is just one of a number of projects underway in the district in partnership with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).
More detail on all the trails can be found on the QLDC website
At a glance:
* Whakatipu Active Travel is an integrated network of trails for walking and cycling that connects to public transport, providing a genuine alternative to getting around by car.
* It is designed to connect key destinations such as Arrowtown, Arthur's Point, Kelvin Heights, Jacks Point, Lake Hayes Estate and Shotover Country, Fernhill, Frankton and Queenstown.
* A programme of work to deliver new walking and cycling facilities, as outlined in the completed business case, has been approved by QLDC Council and joint funding for the first package of the new network has been approved by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
