Te Atatu Road, Te Atatu – Signalised mid-block crossing Te Atatu Road, Te Atatu – Signalised mid-block crossing

Proposal goal

• Concern that the proposal was being considered in isolation without regard to the bigger picture.

The primary objective of our investigations along Te Atatu Road is to improve the safety of the most vulnerable road users including pedestrians and people on bikes by providing safer and more accessible crossings and calming high vehicle speeds.

We have several safety and speed calming recommendations along Te Atatu Road moving forward that will need to undergo a thorough prioritisation assessment before they can further progress.

At this stage however, we are looking at proposing a new signalised mid-block crossing slightly further north of what was initially proposed, closer to Cellarmans Street. Once we have confirmed the design, we will reach out to locals for their feedback.

Traffic calming

• Concerns over traffic speeds along Te Atatu Road. Requests for further traffic calming measures along Te Atatu Road.

We are aware that vehicles often travel at speed at this location and are therefore proposing to install a driver speed feedback sign for northbound traffic in addition to the existing one for the southbound traffic as interim measures. We will also be proposing installation of “Slow” road markings and high friction surfacing for both traffic directions to enhance safety along this section of Te Atatu.

Moreover, we are passing along feedback regarding vehicle speeds to police for more targeted enforcement. We will initiate safety campaigns through our community transport team to better promote road safety efforts across the community.

• Request to reduce the speed limit along the length of Te Atatu Road to 30 km/hr.

At this stage, we are not proposing to reduce speed limits along Te Atatu Road. As mentioned previously, we expect to introduce road marking changes and digital speed feedback signs as part of the new design aimed at improving driver awareness and at calming high traffic speeds.

• Request to install speed cameras:
  
  • Where the existing speed feedback sign is.
  • Along Te Atatu Road in general.

We work alongside the NZ Police and NZTA in determining locations for speed cameras across the Auckland region. Digital speed feedback signs will help us collect data on speeds along Te Atatu Road. Furthermore, concerns around vehicle speeds are being passed along to the NZ Police for more targeted enforcement.

Red light running

• Concern that the proposal would increase safety risks around red light running, as pedestrians and cyclists who have a green light would perceive the crossing to be safer.

A CCTV camera will be installed when the signalised mid-block crossing is constructed, which will allow us to better monitor driver behaviour. Once the new signalised crossing design has been confirmed, we will also be proposing additional warning measures such as “slow” pavement markings and digital speed feedback signs. We also expect to propose red carpet treatment between the crosswalk lines and high friction surfacing on traffic lanes for drivers approaching the crossing.

• Requests for further traffic calming measures to raise driver awareness and reduce the risk of red light running, including threshold treatments.

As mentioned above, as part of the new design we also likely be proposing warning measures such as “slow” road markings, high friction surfacing, and digital speed feedback signs. Furthermore, concerns around vehicle speeds are being passed along to the NZ Police for more targeted enforcement.

• Request to install smart studs (flashing lights embedded into the roadway) to increase driver awareness leading up to the crossing.

We expect to install a number of measures at this location that will serve similar functions, including “slow” road markings, high friction surfacing, and digital speed feedback signs.

• Concern that drivers frequently run the red light at the pedestrian crossing when entering the city-bound on-ramp to the motorway.

Thank you for your feedback. We are currently investigating whether we can install monitoring equipment at this location to better help us with data collection regarding red light running.

Signal phasing

• Request to have a delay between lights turning red for drivers and turning green for pedestrians/cyclists, to avoid safety issues around red light running.

Including some delay (inter-green time) between one traffic light turning red and another turning green is standard with signalised intersections and pedestrian crossings.

• Request for a 'countdown' to indicate to drivers when the traffic lights will change.

Unfortunately this cannot be considered at this time. The phasing of pedestrian and bicycle lights will be set such that it is able to accommodate individuals of all abilities and allow them to safely cross the road.

Pedestrian facilities

• Requests to relocate the zebra crossings at the intersection of Te Atatu Road and Taikata Road as drivers frequently do not see them until the last minute and they often result in traffic congestion.

The zebra crossings at this roundabout were installed over speed tables in order to raise driver awareness on approach and to provide for enhanced traffic calming. This ensures a safer outcome for pedestrians crossing the road at this location.

• Requests to construct further pedestrian refuges along Te Atatu Road.

Our safety investigations have included the stretch of Te Atatu Road between Titoki Street and Wharf Road. We have several recommendations along Te Atatu Road moving forward that will need to undergo a thorough prioritisation assessment before they can further progress.

At this stage however, we are looking at proposing a new signalised mid-block crossing slightly further north of what was initially proposed, closer to Cellarmans Street. Once we have confirmed the design, we will reach out to locals for their feedback.

• Concerns over the state of the existing footpaths along Te Atatu Road:
  
  • Between Gloria Ave and the alleyway to Graham Avenue.
  • Between Gloria Ave and Yeovil (respondent notes tree roots are uprooting footpaths).
  • Along the stretch of Te Atatu Road (respondents note that footpaths are narrow and street lighting further impedes on this).

At this stage we are unable to consider footpath widening along the stretches of Te Atatu Road above due to funding limitations. However, given that we will be proposing the signalised mid-block crossing closer to Cellarmans Street, we will also investigate widening the footpath in the vicinity of the new proposal. Once the design is confirmed then further details will be provided for comment.

• Request to widen footpaths along Te Atatu Road and better separate them from the flow of vehicle traffic.

As mentioned above, we will be looking at widening footpaths within the vicinity of the new proposed signalised crossing. Details will be available for feedback shortly, once the new design has been confirmed.

• Concern that due to the location of the northbound bus stop, pedestrians will not walk to the crossing at 477 Te Atatu Road in order to cross.

Based on public feedback and the results of a subsequent independent review, we will be proposing for the signalised mid-block crossing to be installed slightly north of what was originally proposed, nearer to Cellarmans Street. We expect that this will better accommodate demand.

Flush median

• Concerns that vehicles frequently travel at speed along the median to bypass congestion or to turn into Cellarmans Street early and that by removing traffic islands, it could further encourage this behaviour and put people on bikes and pedestrians at risk.

The new signalised mid-block crossing will be proposed slightly north of where it was originally suggested. As part of the new design, we will endeavour to retain the existing traffic island outside 477 Te Atatu Road but expect it will be converted into a solid traffic island. Meanwhile, we are also looking into opportunities to add refuge islands in the new mid-block crossing at the new location. Once our design has been confirmed, details will be made available for feedback.

Cycle lanes

• Requests to extend protected cycle lanes along Te Atatu Road:
  • Through to Gloria Avenue.
  • Along Te Atatu Rd in general.
  • Along the eastern side of Te Atatu.
  • Along both sides of Te Atatu from Gloria Avenue through to the town centre.
  • Through to Yeovil Road.

In due course, we will be investigating options for the Te Atatu Peninsula. Unfortunately, we do not currently have funding under the walking and cycling programme to begin working on these investigations immediately. However, we thank you for your suggestions and have made notes of these requests for future reference.

• Request to install flexi-posts or bollards to better separate cycle lanes from vehicle traffic.

As mentioned above, currently we do not have sufficient funding to investigate separated cycle facilities on Te Atatu Road, temporary or otherwise. We have however made notes of these requests for future reference.

• Request to better connect existing cycleways to the village by placing the crossing nearer to Cellarmans Street.

We agree that a new mid-block crossing closer to Cellarmans Street would be able to better address demand for people walking and cycling at this location. We will be confirming our new design shortly, at which point we will reach out to locals and respondents for their feedback.

• Request to install the 'missing link' between the cycleway and Danica Esplanade.

Thank you for your feedback. Auckland Council recently consulted on their draft masterplan for Harbourview-Orangihina Park, the results of which are available on their website.

Bus facilities

• Requests for combined bus and bike lanes along Te Atatu Road.

We are currently unable to investigate installation of dedicated bus lanes and further improvements to cycle lanes as part of this project. We have however made notes of these requests for future reference.

• Request for a dedicated bus lane along Te Atatu Road.

We are currently unable to investigate the feasibility of installing dedicated bus lanes along Te Atatu Road. However, this does not preclude this possibility as part of our longer term plans for the area.

• Request to relocate the existing bus stop outside of the childcare centre.

The new proposal will likely involve a slight shift of Bus Stop 5095, but once we have confirmed the design we will contact respondents and locals with details.

Alternative crossing locations

• Requests to move the proposed crossing:
  • Closer to the intersection with Yeovil Road.
  • At the intersection with Yeovil Road and including a roundabout.
  • Outside of the alleyway through to Graham Avenue.
  • Further north along Te Atatu Road outside of the library/Countdown to better connect people to shops.
  • Closer to Cellarmans Street.
  • Near the intersection with Vinograd Drive.
  • Either closer to Gloria Avenue or closer to Cellarmans Street.
  • At Gloria Avenue by upgrade the roundabout to a signalised intersection.

Following receipt of public feedback, we organised an independent review of the feasibility and safety of constructing a signalised crossing at a number of locations on Te Atatu Road. The results of that review indicate that from a walking and cycling perspective, a mid-block crossing located slightly north of what was initially proposed (closer to Cellarmans Street) would better suit the needs of the wider community.

Based on these results, we are currently redesigning our proposal so that it will best suit the needs of vulnerable road users crossing Te Atatu Road. Once the design is confirmed, details will be made available for feedback.

• Suggestion that people tend to cross at the alleyway from Graham Avenue or at the intersection with Gloria Avenue.

As mentioned above, the new proposed location should better address demand from the alleyway from Graham Avenue. Once the design is confirmed, details will be made available for feedback.

• Concern that installing the crossing at the proposed location will encourage jaywalking nearby.

We are unable to control where people walking and cycling cross. What we aim to do with this proposal and those similar is to provide safe crossing facilities where the demand is highest. Installation of additional crossing facilities also has indirect benefits for people crossing nearby, in that they raise driver awareness and calm traffic speeds.

In this case, we will be redesigning our proposal slightly north of what was originally proposed to ensure the best outcome for those crossing Te Atatu Road. This would also mean that the crossing would be within close proximity of bus stops on both the eastern and western sides of the road, increasing connectivity for public transport users.

Te Atatu Road and Gloria Avenue intersection

• Concern that recent collisions near the intersection of Te Atatu Road and Gloria Avenue have taken out street lighting which has not been replaced.

Thank you for raising this issue. We have asked for our contractors to investigate and repair any issues where required.

• Request to improve crossing facilities at the intersection with Gloria Avenue.

This intersection has been reviewed as part of our investigation for the larger Te Atatu Road area. Although changes at this location are possible in the future, we are unable to comment on time frames as our recommendations will need to go through a prioritisation assessment against others identified Auckland-wide before they can progress further.

• Concerns that vehicles frequently make hazardous manoeuvres as they travel through the roundabout at the intersection of Gloria Avenue and Te Atatu Road.

This intersection has been reviewed as part of our investigation for the larger Te Atatu Road area. Although changes at this location are possible in the future, we are unable to comment on time frames as our recommendations will need to go through a prioritisation assessment against others identified Auckland-wide before they can progress further.

• Requests to replace the roundabout at the intersection with Gloria Avenue with traffic lights to better serve pedestrians and drivers.

This intersection has been reviewed as part of our investigation for the larger Te Atatu Road area. Although changes at this location are possible in the future, we are unable to comment on time frames as our recommendations will need to go through a prioritisation assessment against others identified Auckland-wide before they can progress further.

Pedestrian and cyclist safety

• Concern that crossing four lanes of traffic is dangerous for vulnerable road users.

The proposal aims to improve safety and connectivity for people walking and cycling at this location. We do not expect that we will be able to incorporate lane reductions as part of this proposal, but are looking into additional safety measures that will better protect people crossing at this location such as refuge islands, changes to road markings, and digital speed feedback signs.

We expect that the new design and associated treatments will better ensure the safety of people crossing Te Atatu Road. Once we have re-consulted publicly and the project is constructed, we will continue to monitor the area for safety.

We have also passed this information along to the relevant team. It is possible that an investigation into lane reductions at this location could occur at some point in the future, although we are unable to provide time frames at this stage.

• Request to ensure that the proposed changes can accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The phasing of pedestrian/bicycle lights and the proposal design will be built to current standards to ensure that the facilities are able to accommodate individuals of all abilities and allow them to safely cross the road.

• Request to install temporary safety measures immediately.

Although the new design will need to be consulted on first, the project is still expected to be introduced by July 2020.

• Concern that pedestrians and cyclists will not wait for the lights to change.

Pushing the button each time will trigger the lights to change. It is difficult to provide an accurate time at this point as this will be reviewed in more detail by the signal specialist during the detailed design stage. Consideration will be given to traffic volume and signal coordination along the rest of Te Atatu Road.

• Request to install a raised crossing at kerb height.

This request cannot be considered at this time. The new design is likely to incorporate additional safety measures such as refuge islands, high friction surfacing, and changes to signage and markings, that will better protect people using the crossing facilities.

Road narrowing and traffic lane reduction

• Suggestions to reduce and or narrow traffic lanes on Te Atatu Road:
  • Northbound to one lane beginning at the Gloria Avenue intersection.
  • In both directions past Gloria Avenue.

We have passed this information along to the relevant team. It is possible that an investigation into lane reductions at this location could occur at some point in the future, although we are unable to provide time frames at this stage.

However, this cannot be incorporated into the current proposal. The final reworked design will also include road marking changes and other measures aimed at raising driver awareness and improving the safety of the immediate road environment.

• Request to widen the traffic lanes.

We will not be widening traffic lanes at this location as part of this proposal. This would be unlikely to contribute to a safer road environment for all road users.

• Concern that reducing the road width by installing traffic islands/side islands can create unnecessary obstacles and safety issues for cyclists.

The new design is not expected to include side islands. Based on tracking and modelling results, it may be possible that refuge islands within the flush median at the site of the mid-block crossing could be incorporated to better ensure the safety of people crossing Te Atatu Road.

Driver awareness

• Requests to add additional road markings and signage to better warn drivers of the upcoming crossing.

Thank you for your feedback. We will incorporate a number of road treatments aimed at increasing driver awareness into the new design including changes to road markings, and the addition of further digital speed feedback signs and refuge islands.

• Request to install speed humps at the driveway of McDonald's.

Whenever exiting driveways, drivers need to pull out slowly and ensure that they are fully aware of traffic before turning.

Refuge islands

• Query as to whether the proposal will include refuge islands.

The new design which will be located slightly north of what was initially proposed will likely incorporate refuge islands as part of the signalised mid-block crossing. We will endeavour to retain the existing island outside 477 Te Atatu Road but expect it will be converted into a solid island.

• Concerns over removal of refuge islands:
  • That it will unnecessarily expose pedestrians and cyclists to oncoming traffic for a longer period of time.
  • That the road will appear wider and encourage speeding.

As mentioned above, we will endeavour to retain the existing island outside 477 Te Atatu Road but expect it will be converted into a solid island. We will also now be proposing that the signalised mid-block crossing be located slightly north of what was originally proposed, near Cellarmans Street. We are expecting that refuge islands may be incorporated at the signalised crossing as part of the design. Once the design is confirmed, details will be made available for feedback.

• Request to maintain the existing refuge and add another refuge near the alleyway to Graham Avenue.

As mentioned above, we will endeavour to retain the existing island outside 477 Te Atatu Road but expect it will be converted into a solid island. We will also now be proposing that the signalised mid-block crossing be located slightly north of what was originally proposed, near Cellarmans Street.

We are expecting that refuge islands may be incorporated at the signalised crossing as part of the design. Once the design is confirmed, details will be made available for feedback.

Shared path

• Concern that the shared path is relatively narrow and cannot accommodate cyclist rest bars.

The footpath is expected to be widened in the vicinity of the new signalised mid-block crossing. However, the feasibility of installing cyclist rest bars will be further investigated as part of the detailed design stage.

• Request to extend the shared path through to Cellarmans Street.

The shared path currently ends at the northwest corner of Harbourview Orangihina Park, but at that point transitions into separated cycle lane and footpath along Te Atatu Road.

Congestion

• Concerns that the proposal will exacerbate congestion issues along Te Atatu Road.

The proposed mid-block signal will only be initiated when there are pedestrians or people on bikes wanting to cross the road and is unlikely to create any significant delay to traffic outside of peak hours.

• Concern that the crossings installed at the intersection of Harbour View Road and Te Atatu Road have unnecessarily worsened traffic congestion.

This intersection is located within a town centre. Raised zebra crossings contribute to reduced vehicle speeds and have been installed here due to high crossing demand. This ensures a safer outcome for those using the crossing facilities.

• Concern that the proposal will cause many motorists to use Gloria Avenue and other nearby streets in order to avoid congestion along Te Atatu Road.

The proposal is not expected to contribute significantly to delays on Te Atatu Road, as traffic light changes will only be initiated when pedestrians push the button.

Status quo

• Suggestion that there is an existing cyclist and pedestrian crossing at the intersection with Old Te Atatu Road and that therefore the proposed crossing is not needed.

This location is a significant distance from the proposal site. We cannot reasonably expect for pedestrians to walk this distance in order to cross Te Atatu Road safely. Therefore, we are proposing additional formal crossing facilities where we have documented high pedestrian crossing demand.

• Suggestions that the existing road layout is sufficient and no changes are needed.

As stated previously, this project was initiated due to ongoing safety issues for people walking and cycling at this location. Traffic light changes will be initiated when people walking or cycling push a button and we therefore are not expecting major impacts on traffic congestion.

Furthermore, we strongly believe that any relatively minor delays for vehicle traffic resulting from the proposal are warranted given the ongoing safety risks for people walking and cycling at this location.

Driveway access

• Request to consider residents entering and exiting driveways at this location when finalising the proposal.

Thank you for your feedback. Driveway access is one of the factors that is considered in the development of all proposals.

• Concerns that the existing refuge obstructs access for residents attempting to turn into their shared driveway.

We expect that the existing island will be maintained as part of the new design, but will be a solid traffic island rather than a pedestrian refuge. We understand that this can be inconvenient, but note that there are roundabouts nearby should residents encounter troubles turning into or out of their driveway from a certain direction.

These islands serve an important safety function in that they better protect pedestrians and people on bikes from vehicle traffic, particularly from vehicles that may travel at speed along the flush median.

Requests for more works

• Concern that the road/cycle path seal needs repairing.

We have identified where maintenance patches are required in the area and these have now been programmed for the next construction season.

• Concern over ineffective storm water drainage on the side of Te Atatu Road across from Cellarmans Street, where water frequently pools.

We recently cleared a blocked catch pit, so we expect that drainage should now be improved here.