7 September 2021
Innovating Streets projects trial temporary, low-cost changes that aim to provide people with safer, healthier and more environmentally friendly ways to move around their cities and towns.
In June 2020, Christchurch’s Ferry Road project launched to fill a gap in the city’s extensive cycling network by connecting the Heathcote Expressway cycleway and St Asaph Street cycleway. To keep people safer, speed limits were reduced from 50km/h to 30km/h. Street art and other visual improvements were also added.
Community input is an essential part of the Innovating Streets approach. So, before a paint tin was opened, Waka Kotahi connected with a range of local organisations and groups to be sure the design met the needs of the community.
This early input led to important improvements – cycle judder bars were added to slow cyclists down near school crossings and ramps were installed in key locations for people who walk in the area.
In April 2021, the cycleway was built using paint, planters and temporary separators so adjustments could be made quickly and easily, based on data collected in person and online.
There’s been positive community feedback, including this: “I love the new cycleway. I quite often use this route to get to Ara Institute of Technology and it's made it a much more pleasant and safer journey. I also love that cheerful street art is included.”
Watch this video to see the improvements being trialled and hear more about what locals think:
This change has seen the number of people cycling through the area increase by almost 20% since January 2021. This trial will run until May 2022 – insights and data collected will help the council decide whether or not to make the change permanent.
As part of the 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme an additional $30 million will be invested in a range of new Innovating Streets projects in communities around the county.
Innovating Streets Programme
2021–24 NLTP Waitaha | Canterbury regional summary
