Improving local connectivity with temporary cycle ways

13/10/2022

Well-designed Temporary Traffic Management keeps cyclists safe, moving, and on their bikes

The Te Ngae/SH30 Eastern Corridor Stage 2 project for Waka Kotahi involves the installation of cycle facilities and safety improvements along a busy arterial route in Rotorua.

As this is a project designed to improve local connectivity and increase the numbers of people walking and cycling, we placed a high priority on providing safe temporary cycling facilities during each phase of the works. Our team took a ‘neutral mode’ approach, to support and encourage continued active travel, and to optimise safety for all road users.

We had valuable input to the TTM design from National Traffic Engineering Manager Daniel Dryland, and Angela McNeil Traffic Control Manager from our Bay of Plenty team. Contract Engineer for the project, Josh Fraser, was an integral part of the design and the implementation on site.

The lessons learned in Stage 1 were incorporated to further improve our safety approach for Stage 2, and resulted in the following:

• TTM layouts that are consistent in design and ‘easy to read’ at entry and exit points
• Traffic switches are reduced across stages of the project
• Routes are obvious, safe, and separated for cyclists.

We have taken the TTM design a step further beyond the usual temporary route, or directing cyclists on to the footpath. The temporary cycle way for Te Ngae Stage 2 is clearly delineated and protected with raised lane markers and hit sticks, with sign posted entry and exit points. This allows cyclists to flow unimpeded and move safely through the working zone, protected from construction traffic.

We engaged with members from Rotorua Cycle Action (RCA) – a local voice for ‘everything cycling’ and advocates for safe cycling infrastructure in the city. Continued consultation with people in the area is important to gain an understanding of who uses active transport, when, and for what reason. Having this information helps us design TTM to avoid a drop off of cyclists during the construction works. Potentially more people will be encouraged to get out of their cars if they see it’s safe, efficient, and fun to use a bike for daily transportation.

Feedback from members of Rotorua Cycle Action have been enthusiastic and positive, including this from Miriam Odlin, self-described ‘rabid cyclist’, who rides the route daily on her cargo bike, delivering goods to customers:

“I just rode the lane. I think it is excellent. Appreciate that it is on decent seal, is a good width and there are breaks in the on-road barriers to get in and out of it. It is wide enough for a cargo bike, smooth enough for a road bike and safe enough for a person of less than bomb-proof disposition…. full marks from me. To be honest it is mostly nice to be considered. This kind of attitude change is vital part of real modal shift. Ngā mihi nui.”