September 17th, 2024
The Government is considering the development of a Long Tunnel through Wellington City for State Highway 1 (SH1). Transport Minister Simeon Brown revealed plans to assess the feasibility of this ambitious project, which aims to address the persistent congestion issues plaguing Wellington’s central transport corridor, especially during peak hours.
The big picture: Economic growth and urban improvement
The proposal for a Long Tunnel emerges amidst ongoing deliberations on enhancing the SH1 route, including the development of a duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project. Minister Brown emphasised that this initiative aligns with the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport, targeting not only the reduction of travel times but also the bolstering of the route’s resilience and safety for all users.
Zoom in: Travel time savings and urban benefits
According to Brown, the Long Tunnel could slash travel times to Wellington airport by up to 15 minutes, a significant improvement over the 2-3 minutes saved by the existing proposals for the Mt Victoria and Basin tunnels. Furthermore, this option promises enhanced urban amenity by reallocating more surface-level road space to public transport and active modes within the CBD, alongside fostering housing intensification and improving regional connectivity.
Why it matters: A smoother path to development
The Long Tunnel proposition also signifies a potentially less disruptive construction phase, with reduced impacts on city centre traffic and minimised encroachments on public and private properties. This approach not only facilitates smoother urban operations during the tunnel’s construction but also underscores the government’s commitment to accelerating infrastructure projects critical for the nation’s economic revival.
What's next: Awaiting expert advice
Minister Brown expressed anticipation for the NZ Transport Agency’s (NZTA) forthcoming advice on the technical, financial, and practical aspects of the Long Tunnel proposal. This includes evaluating its compatibility with the pressing need for a second Mt Victoria Tunnel in Wellington, as prioritised by the Government.
The consideration of a Long Tunnel for SH1 in Wellington marks a pivotal step towards addressing long-standing traffic congestion issues while supporting the broader goals of economic growth, urban enhancement, and improved connectivity.