Park and ride for transport

MOSGIEL and Burnside could each have 180 car parks created as part of parkandride facilities that could help to reduce demand for parking in central Dunedin.

The $10 million project would provide an alternative option to driving into the city while Dunedin’s new hospital is built.

It is among a series of projects proposed by the Dunedin City Council, Otago Regional Council and NZ Transport Agency to ease traffic congestion in the central city, as the hospital is constructed and after its completion.

The package promotes use of public transport and options such as cycling.

Most traffic coming into the city — 65% — comes from south or west of it.

It is expected a park and ride facility in Mosgiel would serve the town and the area around it, including Outram.

The Burnside site would serve citybound traffic from further south.

Details about the programme have been sketchy, but the Dunedin City Council provided a little more information as part of its 10year plan process.

If the project is approved, each site would have CCTV cameras, shelter and a small bus interchange.

Among other possible changes is an extension to the 30kmh speed zone in the city, more Barnes dance pedestrian crossing signals and improved cycling routes.

Improvements to a harbour arterial route would include an upgrade to the Ward St overbridge and signage conveying information about traffic delays or congestion.