Pedestrian level crossing removal Pedestrian level crossing removal
As part of the Metro Rail Enhancement Programme, AT is investigating the removal of some at grade pedestrian level crossings not suitable for the future state of the rail network.
Project Status: Initial Design Phase
Project Zone: Region-wide
Background
There are several rail improvement projects underway across the Auckland region that will significantly increase the Metro Rail capacity and provide greater flexibility for freight train operations from 2024 onwards.
As a result, Auckland Transport (AT) is in the process of developing a new train timetable that improves the frequency and capacity of services without increasing overall train movements at most level crossings. While possible in areas, it means that Auckland Transport needs to investigate alternative options for some level crossing sites.
As part of the Metro Rail Enhancement Programme, AT is investigating the removal of at grade pedestrian level crossings as they are not suitable for the future rail network. This project is part of the wider Level Crossing Removal programme.
The preparation of the Single Stage Business Case (SSBC) is the first step that will set the direction and standards for the programme and is considered essential to achieve full benefits from CRL.
The aim of this business case option assessment is to understand at each site the need for a full closure with a grade separation (overbridge or underpass) or the use of an alternative route.
The funding for the delivery of the programme is not yet allocated.
Project Timeline
July 2021 – Engagement held with stakeholders to discuss emerging options
February 2022 – Draft Single Stage Business Case developed
March 2022 – Final recommendations made by project team
March 2022 – Engagement with stakeholders to discuss proposed outcomes
Late 2022 – Closure timeline updated
Investigation Locations
Auckland Transport is investigating and evaluating the options of five crossings not associated with train stations or that have no vehicle access. Additionally, two crossings located at Homai station are also being investigated.
These sites include:
- Tironui Station Road East, Takaanini
The pedestrian level crossing connects two residential streets in Takaanini. The crossing is controlled by automatic safety gates. High residential area to the east of the rail line and busy commercial and business area to the west with the crossing providing access between the Takaanini shopping centre and schools.
- Kingdon Street, Newmarket
The pedestrian level crossing connects two roads in the highly commercial and business area of Newmarket. There are also several high-density apartment blocks located close by. The crossing is controlled by automatic safety gates.
- Lloyd Avenue, Mt Albert
The pedestrian level crossing connects two residential streets in Mt Albert. The crossing is controlled by automatic safety gates.
- Corban Estate, Henderson
The pedestrian level crossing connects a key arterial road (Great North Road) with a community arts centre in Henderson. The crossing is not controlled by automatic safety gates. Crossing provide access to the Corban Estate Arts Centre. There are various commercial and medical businesses located close by as well retirement villages and medical centres.
- O’Neils Road, Swanson
The pedestrian level crossing connects a new residential development and a commercial centre in Swanson. The crossing is not controlled by automatic safety gates.
- Homai Station
There are also two level crossings at Homai Station that will be included due to the increased rail traffic and current safety concerns. The SSBC investigation will consider the removal of these two crossings and asses the feasibility to construct a ramp or to replace the stairs that are connected to the Browns Road overbridge.
Map showing pedestrian level crossing closures (96KB)
Proposed Recommendations
Following the assessments by the project team, the proposed recommendation is closure of all seven level crossings with customers using alternate active mode routes to adjacent level crossings.
As part of this recommendation for the closure of the level crossings, three sites have recommendations to invest and improve the alternative route improvements.
Lloyd Avenue, Mt Albert
- Signalisation of Prospero Terrace / Carrington Road intersection with pedestrian facilities.
- Widening of cycle lanes on Carrington Road and the addition of cycle buffers.
Kingdon Street, Newmarket
- Davis Crescent footpath widening from 1.3m to 2.5m.
- Davis Crescent and Short Street raised table crossings as traffic calming measures.
Homai Station
- The construction of a ramp to provide universal station access at Homai Station.
- Provision of concrete pavements from the park and ride area and bus stop to Browns Road. This is complemented by a set of stairs, and the removal of the existing footpath leading from the bus stop to the existing pedestrian level crossings.
- Footpath improvements adjacent to the station and new ramp.