Kapiti proposes speed changes
A new long-term speed management plan for the Kā piti Coast is proposing to introduce speed limits as low as 20kph around schools and town centres.
The plan by the Kā piti Coast District Council is a part of the Government’s Road to Zero strategy to minimise road death. Consultation is open on a possible 10-year plan for Kā piti and a plan for making changes in some areas in the next three years until June 9.
The district council is proposing setting a 30kph speed limit around all Kāpiti Coast schools and marae by the end of 2027, except around Kāpiti School where it will have a 20kph limit.
It also wants to set new speed limits from 20kph to 50kph at town centres in Raumati South village, Raumati Beach Village, Waikanae Beach Village, Ō taki, Waikanae and Te Horo Beach and on roads like Riverbank Rd in Ō taki.
Beyond 2027, the council is planning to install trafficcalming devices on roads pedestrian crossings, speed humps or road marking on some roads where infrastructure was required complement speed limits.
Mayor Janet Holborow said many in the community would welcome the speed management plan and it was an important step in making local roads and environment better.
‘‘Our communities have been asking for measures to improve road safety, especially around schools, and this will help make speeds safer and more appropriate for our roads.
‘‘Lowering the speed limit around the places where many of our young people are concentrated just makes sense and will also make it easier and safer for kids to walk, cycle or scoot to school and around their neighbourhoods.’’