Change proposed for six Kihikihi streets
Six streets in Kihikihi may be turned into cul-de-sacs as part of the new $7.2 million walking and cycleway path planned for the town.
Waipā District Council has opened formal consultation on a specific proposal to turn parts of Bryce St, Grey St, Rolleston Street south, Moule Street, Hall Street north and Whitaker Street north into no exit streets. People will still be able to access the streets from both ends by foot, bike, scooter or mobility devices but vehicles will only be able to enter from one end.
Transportation manager Bryan Hudson said Council is now seeking specific feedback on the cul-de-sac proposals.
“We shared plans for the new pathway running down Rolleston, Whitmore and Oliver Streets in March and we’ve generally had a lot of support for what’s planned. Based on what people said, we have made some changes to what was originally proposed, including adding in an additional bus stop on Whitmore Street, providing more roadside parking and taking measures to slow traffic on Whitmore Street,” Hudson said.
“We’re now asking for comment on these very specific proposals around cul-de-sacs. From a safety perspective, cul-de-sacs are critical because they will reduce the number of intersections on Rolleston and Whitmore Streets that path users have to cross. That’s really important, particularly for kids going to and from school.”
Hudson said he expected people living on the streets would have mixed views.
“Some people may resent the inconvenience of having to drive just that little bit further, even though we are talking very small distances. But from what we’ve seen elsewhere in the district, some people will be keen as mustard to live in a cul-de-sac street because they are quieter and tend to be safer places for kids and families.”
$4.8 million of funding for Te Ara Rimu has been provided by Waka Kotahi as part of their programme aimed at helping create more transport choices across New Zealand and helping people safely opt out of cars.
Letters and more detailed information have been delivered to properties in the potentially impacted streets on Tuesday morning. Detailed maps, more information and a feedback form are available at www.waipadc.govt.nz/kihikihipathway.
Feedback must be received by 5pm, Thursday July 13, either online or via forms available from Council offices and libraries. Councillors will make a final decision on whether or not streets will become cul-de-sacs in September.
People seeking further information are invited to call 0800 924 723 or email kihikihipathway@waipadc.govt.nz.
