The Strand Optimisation project

19 December 2024

Latest update on The Strand Optimisation project

Kia ora koutou,

We are pleased to announce that the detailed design for Stage 2 of the Strand Optimisation Project has now been finalised. This stage includes the implementation of a separated shared use path, enhancing travel options for pedestrians and cyclists while also providing a safer, more efficient, and resilient transport network.

Read on to find out more…

In our October newsletter, we shared an update on the staging of the Strand Optimisation Project, which will be delivered in two stages:

• Stage 1: implementing a special vehicle lane, relocating or removing bus stops, installing new pedestrian crossings, and upgrading intersections.
• Stage 2: implementing a shared use path.

Since then, our contractors, Auckland Systems Management has been overseeing the delivery of Stage 1, including key communications with the community and key stakeholders. We can now share the finalised design for Stage 2.

The Stage 2 improvements include:

• Connecting the shared use path to the existing Grafton Gully shared use path just prior to Alten Road. It will follow the existing path on Churchill Street to the new signalised crossing, then run along Beach Road and connect to The Strand up to the rail overbridge. It will be separated from the road to improve safety, road efficiency and productivity.
• Two-way travel for the entire length of the shared use path.
• Installation of high kerbs on the approach to the rail overbridge and adjustments to the lane positions to improve vehicle tracking to prevent kerb runover.
• Upgrades to the existing fence extending from just north of Sudbury Terrace to the rail overbridge.
• Zebra crossings on all side streets to provide shared use path users with priority.

Next steps

With the detailed design now complete, we are moving forward with the consenting process followed by construction for Stage 2. We anticipate that physical works will begin in April 2025, although the final timeline will depend on the outcome of the consenting process and the final construction methodology.

Stage 1 and 2 project phase

Bus shelter changes

The bus shelter at the following stops have been removed as of mid-December 2024:

• 1358 – 93 The Strand
• 1336 – 88 The Strand
• 7646 – 112 Gladstone Road
• 7653 – 112 Gladstone Road

The removal of these shelters will facilitate the Stage 1 improvements of The Strand Optimisation project, scheduled from January 2025.

You can still catch your bus at these locations, but please note that there won’t be a shelter available. Once construction is complete, the bus shelters will be re-installed at the new bus stop locations.

More information

If you have any questions regarding the design and/or other aspects of the project, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Email: StrandOptimisation@nzta.govt.nz

Visit our website: www.nzta.govt.nz/the-strand-optimisation

Please note NZTA is closed for the Christmas and New Year period, from close of business 20 December 2024, returning Monday 6 January 2025.

Wishing you happy holidays - stay safe ✨