Raised crossing numbers to drop

Raised pedestrian crossings have become the norm in Auckland, and while they are designed for safety, they are not always popular with motorists or those concerned about the cost, which can be significant.

However, a change is in the wind, exemplified by recent amendments to a planned local crossing that was originally to be raised.

At its meeting on May 28, the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board signed off on a change to the design of the pedestrian crossing to be created at the busy intersection of Whangaparāoa Road and Hibiscus Coast Highway. The project involves Auckland Transport (AT) adding a new pedestrian crossing on the slip lane, a footpath on the island, and a driver feedback sign at the intersection. 

A footpath will also be built from the slip lane pedestrian crossing to the driveway of 57A Hibiscus Coast Highway. 

Originally to be raised, this crossing on the slip lane will instead have on-demand lights. The change does not appear to have reduced the cost estimate of $800,000.

The report presented to the local board said that the change reflects a recent review of AT’s pedestrian safety approach from “one size fits all” (a raised pedestrian crossing in every case) to consideration of a range of solutions that can delivery safety. 

AT estimates there will be a reduction of around 30 percent in the number of raised pedestrian crossings it builds, compared to the current pipeline of projects. 

The report said in all cases, alternative safety measures will be considered to achieve the same outcomes and the results will be monitored closely. 

Examples of alternatives may include signalised crossings and other speed calming measures. 

The Whangaparāoa Road intersection project also includes a footpath from 57A Hibiscus Coast Highway to Titan Place, with an estimated cost of $400,000 that will be funded by AT and delivered at the same time.