Cycle lane has made SH1 a dog’s breakfast

HOW long before the powersthatbe realise (and agree) that the cycle lane along State Highway 1 in Dunedin is dangerous, underutilised and a total waste of money?

The highway is now dangerous for traffic, pedestrians and most of all skateboarders and cyclists. Cars and trucks travel sidebyside, in close proximity, until one driver decides to park in one of the few parks still available.

A lane is then blocked and the following traffic banks up — sometimes for a whole block. Then, if a frontseat passenger needs to get out of a car, he/she will be in the line of the following traffic.

Traffic lanes are narrow and at night, or after rain, it is difficult to see the new markings while the previous lines are clearly visible.

It is now almost impossible to find a car park along the route, near the hospital, university and museum.

Very few cyclists use the highway cycle lane because it is just too dangerous. Cyclists are even expected to cross lanes through traffic near the Botanic Garden. Little wonder some ride on the footpath or on pedestrian crossings.

There have already been two (and maybe more) nasty SH1 traffic accidents involving cyclists.

I wonder how many more incidents will occur before our city leaders admit they have made a serious and expensive mistake. It was always obvious that these wide cycle lanes would create a huge problem for motorists, businesses and cyclists but those who made the decisions have kept their heads in the sand.

The bus hub will soon be under way, replacing another 37 car parks, and it is hoped that the large buses can negotiate the narrow streets safely.

Apparently SH1 layout may be changed when the new hospital is built so we can expect another deluge of orange cones.

Bernice Armstrong

Opoho

[Abridged] ...................................

BIBLE READING: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end. — Lamentations 3:22.