Central Connector
Introduction |
Works update |
Central Connector route |
Central Connector design plans |
Streetscape improvements | Changes to key
intersections | Stay informed
Quicker bus travel
Quicker bus travel and
improved cycle and pedestrian facilities are a step closer with work on the
Central Connector underway. The new busway will provide quicker, more efficient
travel between the CBD and Newmarket via key locations such as Auckland Hospital
and The University of Auckland.
The route will start at the Britomart Transport Centre and run along Customs
Street and Beach Road, up Anzac Avenue and Symonds Street, across Grafton Bridge
and along Park Road, linking up with existing bus lanes on Khyber Pass Road.
As part of the project there
is a range of work being carried out to make bus travel easier and more
efficient, including:
- dedicated 24-hour bus lanes
ensuring buses are not held up in traffic
- new bus stops at key
locations
- improved traffic signals
- improved street lighting
- new and improved bus
shelters.
Improvements for pedestrians
include 10 additional pedestrian crossings, new paving and specially designed
glass canopies and bus shelters, creating a safer and more attractive pedestrian
environment.
There will also be some major
improvements made for cyclists along the route. Where possible, bus lanes have
been designed to allow buses and cyclists to pass each other safely. Mountable
kerbs will be created where bus lanes narrow so cyclists can safely move onto
the shared footpath. Traffic lights will have advance cycle boxes, which allow
cyclists a head start on other traffic. Bike stands will be provided along the
route where space allows.
The Central Connector forms a crucial part of Auckland's expanding transport
network, linking into the Northern Busway at Britomart and connecting future bus
improvement projects on Great South, Manukau and Remuera Roads. It will also
complement the rail network by providing a travel option to Britomart and
Newmarket stations.
Funding has also been secured from Auckland Regional Transport Authority and
Land Transport New Zealand to strengthen and future-proof Grafton Bridge. The
bridge will be able to accommodate heavier low-emission buses and other forms of
passenger transport such as light rail in the future.
The below map highlights the route Central Connector will
take.
