Transport network optimisation

Print version: Transport network optimisation (PDF, 2.12 MB, 53 pages)

Summary

This discussion document looks at ways of optimising New Zealand’s road transport network. It is assumed that we will not be attempting to build our way out of congestion – instead we are moving towards smarter ways of managing land use (to reduce the need for travel) and more sustainable modes of transport. Better integration of land use and transport planning is recognised as a key requirement through to 2040 and beyond. Increasingly, we will be attempting to get better value for money out of our road network by using existing roads better (for all modes) rather than building more roads.

Nationally, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainability, not just in transport but across all sectors. Fuel price rises, climate change, the health sector’s support for more active lifestyles and the desire for improved urban design in our towns and cities are strong reasons for a more sustainable transport future.

Managing land use better to minimise the need for travel will be essential. Travel demand management and other techniques to change attitudes and behaviour will be part of the toolkit for optimising our road network. This optimisation must increasingly include the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users. These changes will help us improve the quality of life in our urban areas and achieve national targets for reduced emissions, less motor vehicle travel and more travel by sustainable modes.

There is much we can do to improve the operation of the road network itself to better support sustainable travel. This includes traffic signal optimisation, implementation of traffic calming, better management of the quantity and location of parking, bus priority measures, better freight practices and enhancements to our road network to support walking and cycling. A key to better urban design and more walkable, cycle-friendly cities will be reducing traffic volumes and speeds in city centres and on residential streets.

Specific programmes for walking and cycling will be needed, not just for infrastructure, but for marketing and promotion. We need to provide conducive environments in our towns and cities where people feel they have the option to walk or cycle for routine trips to work, school, local shops and for social and recreational purposes – and then choose to do so.

Pricing and charging for roads and parking are increasingly being used overseas to encourage desired transport outcomes and these tools will be needed in New Zealand. The urge to reduce fuel taxes (or not introduce regional fuel taxes) in times of international price rises should be resisted as pricing is a very effective way of forcing change, while at the same time helping manage congestion and raise revenue for more sustainable transport options. Ensuring users pay the full price of travel encourages people to reduce trips and choose the right mode for each trip, thus improving community outcomes.

The discussion document draws inspiration from five international case studies. London (UK), Portland (Oregon, USA), Odense (Denmark), South East Queensland (Australia) and Freiburg (Germany) have been chosen to illustrate a series of measures used to manage transport in cities. They all rely on the use of many interventions, where land use and transport planning is integrated and sustainable travel modes are actively supported.

In addition, some 30 New Zealand examples of good practice are discussed. They typically showcase an innovative solution in one of our towns or cities and are intended to provide inspiration for others to emulate. However, as in the international case studies, we will need to make many changes in our urban areas; no single treatment will be sufficient to achieve our goals.

Finally, the document includes a “shopping list” of actions for local and regional government to consider. They may not all suit every town or city, but there should be something for everyone. Strong leadership at the local and regional level, by both professionals and their elected representatives, will be needed. Change is needed now to achieve the outcomes we desire for this generation and the ones to follow.

 

< previous | next >

Page created: 9 October 2008