[!ai]
Strong advocate for completing cycling network with emphasis on safety enforcement through red-light cameras. Makes Portsmouth Drive crossing top priority. Supports lower Octagon pedestrianization and network connectivity. Practical focus on connecting existing infrastructure.
Hi Devonia
Thanks for sending this through. Here are my responses:
- Connecting the various sections of the cycleways/shared paths. Basically, completing the work that has been started and uniting the sections into a functional and appealing network.
- Having experienced, several times, what many cyclists have – far too close encounters with vehicles disregarding road rules and traffic lights – I would like to see the use of red-light cameras. I don’t believe that we can entirely separate cycles from cars, but we need to re-educate some drivers on the reasons for road rules.
- Ensuring that the crossing at the end of Portsmouth Drive is made safe. There is work being done on planning this, but I would be keeping an eye on it and advocating for it to be done as quickly as possible.
- Public transport is, at this stage, run under the Otago Regional Council. This is an arrangement that I would like to explore. Is it providing the best outcome for the city or, if it were to be brought in to the DCC, could we better serve the city.
- I have long been an advocate for some sections of George street being pedestrianised – even if it is just one block as a start.
- Priority #1 for me is to make the crossing at the corner of Portsmouth Drive and Shore St safe. We often take our lives in our hands when we cross there and that needs to change.
- Other than that it is more or less as above – connect the network (which includes the tunnels trail) as we can assign finance and making intersections safer (red light cameras)
- As part of a wider refresh of the heart of our city, I would like to see the lower Octagon closed to traffic (down as far as, but not including, Bath st). I believe this would help bring some vibrancy to the area, help local businesses, and allow for more activities and enjoyment of the area.
- Speed calming measures, such as bumps and lower speed limits, are important in the right places however I am not an advocate for widespread, all encompassing actions. I believe they need to be considered on a situation by situation basis.
- All my previous comments around pedestrianisation are made with the expectation that accessibility will be at the core of any designs.
Thanks again for this. I hope my answers are of interest.
Regards
Kevin Gilbert