https://www.cyclewellington.org.nz/december_2021_newsletter

Kia ora koutou -

As we approach the end of this tumultuous year, we just wanted to thank all our supporters for being behind us. Our efforts are making a difference.

We know that bikes are a critical part of a happier, healthier, and more equitable future for Wellington. We’re excited about what lies ahead next year - not just which projects are coming, but also the change to how those projects are being delivered as well.

At our monthly meeting this week we reflected on the huge opportunity that this change in process presents for the future of cycling infrastructure. Much of what we start to see next year won’t be perfect immediately, but that is a conscious part of the strategy. It means there is a chance to learn and adjust more often to get it right.

Contrast that with past major cycling projects that have to wait for another entire round of council debate and consultation to address some issues that (invariably) arise. As these projects reclaim space for cycling in cost effective ways, the project teams will also be working hard to evaluate and responding to feedback. This approach was proven successful on the Brooklyn Road bike lane project.

Please make sure you submit on the items below and then enjoy a great holiday season with many fun rides!

Ngā mihi nui,

Alex Dyer and Linda Beatson
Co-Chairs Cycle Wellington

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Calls to action

Bike Network Plan

Consultation closes 5pm Tuesday 14 December 2021

This is the BIG one! Wellington City Council are consulting on the shape of a 147 km bike network across the whole city by 2030.

Let’s Get Wellington Moving

Consultation closes Friday 10 December 2021

Get in quick - this consultation closes earlier than the other two big ones currently running.

The District Plan

Consultation closes Tuesday 14 December 2021

Shaping a good District Plan can support better cycling by working to enable closer proximity of things people need to get to.

A City for People quick submit

If you are pressed for time for these big consultations, please use the quick submit form available from A City for People.

Survey Botanic Garden ki Paekākā to city

To assist with one of the interim bike routes projects, WCC have a survey running. It should take 5 - 10 minutes.

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Upcoming bikeness

Picnics in Parks

11am - 12:30pm weekly on Fridays

Changing locations

Every Friday (nearly!) we meet up somewhere in central city Wellington in an on-street parking space. Join us for a chat and coffee, and sometimes: knitting, board games, and puppies, and help passers-by rethink the use of public space. We’re usually near a cafe, so come support a local business for your lunch as well.

Next Cycle Wellington Meeting

Tuesday 1st February 2021

Sustainability Trust, Forresters Ln. and online.

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Project updates

WCC

Interim cycle routes nearing 60% design

Officers are progressing designs from feedback on the 30% designs. Currently ordering materials and booking work crews. Community activation days along the routes being considered for February - ala Brooklyn Road open day.

Please be kind to Parking Officers

We heard from the WCC Parking Team Leader. There has recently been some unacceptable behaviour from some people cycling towards Parking Officers. Parking officers are our friends and allies. We need to treat them with respect and kindness. Thanks to James Burgess for creating a post to raise awareness about this.

Evans Bay Parade project going ahead

On 24 November the Council unanimously approved the amended concept plans for Te Haerenga Roa o Te Aro – Greta Point to Cobham Drive. Work on the site is expected to begin in about a year’s time. Detailed design underway now.

https://www.transportprojects.org.nz/current/evans-bay/greta-point-to-cobham-drive/

Island Bay Parade getting a little upgrade

A decision on how to proceed for Island Bay was reached by Councillors, approving a modest upgrade that will see some physical separation added along the route and the route will also extend through the shopping area. Work on the ground is expected in March 2022 to coincide with resealing.

Bike Network Plan

The Bike Network Plan is out for consultation until 5pm 14 December. WCC are seeking input on the proposed routes. Officers are in the process of planning around 30 projects for delivering the network.

Miramar Shelly Bay Road to Tauhinu Road

This short section in Miramar has faced some underground infrastructure that has proven challenging and is causing a bit of a hold up to construction. Expected finish early in the new year.

https://www.transportprojects.org.nz/current/miramar-overview/shelly-bay-road-to-tauhinu-road

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Recent goings on

RiverLink project headed to the Environment Court

Thank you to everyone who submitted on this. People concerned with a good cycling solution made up half of the 120 submissions.

The applicants (Waka Kotahi, Hutt City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council) applied for direct referral to The Environment Court with a hearing expected in April 2022.

Cycle Wellington will be supporting our friends in Hutt Cycle Network to seek a better outcome for people on bikes for this project.