Tighter political oversight for Hamilton transport projects
Politicians are tightening their grip on roading decisions after copping flak related to humps, bumps and in-lane bus stops.
The change follows direction from mayor Paula Southgate and deputy mayor and committee chairperson Angela O’Leary.
The new process was prompted by strong feedback from the community, and will involve a more rigorous analysis of the rationale for transport projects, a council statement said yesterday.
“We’ve heard the community and have taken action, to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of our city’s residents,” O’Leary said.
Under the new framework, transport projects will be grouped into three categories: essential, renewal and maintenance, and improvement.
When improvement and other major projects involve significant transport network upgrades - or work where multiple changes are proposed in one project - they’ll be put through a much more rigorous test.
It means councillors will have a full picture of what’s proposed before making a final decision.
Appropriate community engagement, and feedback from the public will be critical to help shape the project options.
“Our decisions are guided by what serves the community’s best interests and enhances their quality of life,” O’Leary said.
“We welcome continued feedback to ensure our transport plans are fit for purpose.” Under the new system essential projects are defined as those vital for maintaining the basic functionality and safety of transportation infrastructure, such as footpath and street upgrades, refreshing road marking, upgrading or replacing street lighting. Renewal projects include revitalising existing infrastructure and enhancing sustainability.
Improvement projects aim to enhance the overall quality and usability of transportation systems, for example crossing and intersection improvements, and changes to road layouts.