[!ai]
Mixed position supporting harbor cycleways and tunnels trail but opposing George Street changes and Albany Street cycleway due to parking concerns. Supports loop bus and e-bike subsidies but prioritizes car parking retention. Shows disconnect between principle and practice.
AQ1 we need more frequent cheaper buses and I’d love to see a passenger rail service and car sharing. I would also love a free loop bus to travel up and down the Main Street. Ideally from the oval to the university. I’d support people being able to put their bikes on the loop bus and get on and off if that was something bikers would use. I would also support subsidising or making it easier to buy electric bikes because they are very expensive and out of reach for many people. (Rates need to be lower first).
I think people should be able to cycle around the city safely. I fully support the harbour walking and cycle ways. I think they are a great asset to our city. I live in West Harbour so I am spoilt for choice. I also support the tunnels trials connecting up to the central Otago rail trail and creating a commuter option for people to safely bike from Mosgiel.
Where I have an issue is in places like Albany Street where almost 60 car parks would go to put in a cycle way. I think we need to find a better system to avoid getting rid of all the carparks.
AQ2 I was not in support of George Street becoming one way. I think the street looks good although the one way blocks the flow of traffic which I’m not keen on. I am in support of making streets more accessible for disabled people in wheel chairs or low vision and elderly in walking frames. I think some of our pavers are lifting and that causes an issue for people in walking frames and is a safety risk. I would also imagine it’s not ideal for cyclists either.
Ngā Mihi,
Carmen Houlahan
Dunedin City Council mayoral and council candidate