Safer speeds through towns and past schools and businesses, raised pedestrian crossing platforms, new roundabouts and improved intersections are among changes people would like to see on State Highway 2 (SH2) in the Wairarapa.
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency recently invited people to share their thoughts on speed limits and proposed infrastructure improvements for increased safety along SH2 between Masterton and Featherston.
A series of drop-in sessions were held in Featherston, Greytown, Carterton and Masterton late last year and comments on proposals were also invited online, via email and on printed feedback forms.
Director of Regional Relationships Emma Speight said there was a fantastic response from the community, with around 500 people attending the open days and more than 900 comments received during the engagement period.
“The majority of the feedback focused on the speed review as well as suggestions for highway improvements such as roundabouts, better visibility at intersections and safer pedestrian facilities,” Ms Speight says.
“Hearing from local people and getting their thoughts on our proposals is very important to us and I want to thank everyone who came along to see us in person, or who used one of our other feedback tools.
“One thing we heard loud and clear was that people are looking forward to much safer journeys with their families in the future.”
Mr Speight says Waka Kotahi plans to start constructing raised pedestrian crossing platforms along SH2, similar to the existing one in Carterton, this year.
“We will use the insights along with additional technical analysis to determine what the safe and appropriate speeds are for SH2 between Masterton and Featherston, and come back to the community to formally consult on this later this year.”
The feedback will also help shape the draft designs for safety improvements such as roundabouts and safety barriers between Masterton and Carterton.
“We will continue with our investigations, design and other work, including speaking with key stakeholders and landowners, and we will look to update the community again by mid-2021,” Ms Speight says.
A summary of the engagement can be found online here:
SH2 Masterton to Featherston speed review Community engagement summary - January 2021 [PDF, 2.2 MB]
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