Upgrading of 'worst intersection in city'

The intersection of Grey and Princess Streets is about to be improved with the installation of traffic signals.


Land Transport New Zealand has begun site preparation work with the upgrade expected to be completed by the end of February.


Included in the proposal are improved facilities for pedestrians, through signal controlled crossings and a raised pedestrian platform on Carroll Street.


“This intersection has long been regarded locally as possibly the worst in the city,” says David Lane, Road Planning Team Leader for the City Council’s roading division.


“It’s difficult for drivers entering or exiting the ring road, but also creates a major barrier for pedestrians, particularly the elderly.”


The upgrade has been commissioned by Transit New Zealand, as the road forms part of the State Highway Network. Consultation with businesses and residents was completed over the last few months.


Traffic signals address safety and efficiency of intersections while also allowing roading authorities to manage demand at peak times.


Priority will be retained for traffic using the ring road but the signals will make it easier for traffic to get onto and off the ring road.


Pedestrian safety was a high priority for the improvements with the Council having received requests for better facilities over many years David Lane says.


Signalised crossings will be installed on Grey Street and Princess Street, with additional uncontrolled crossing points on Carroll Street and further west on Grey Street. A central median island on Grey Street will provide some additional protection for pedestrians.


The traffic signals will provide better access and safety for cyclists with some additional facilities being provided. Wide kerb side lanes have been provided in the design along with advance stop boxes.


“The signals will change the way the intersection operates,” says David. “While there will be some reduction in intersection efficiency through a small increase in delays, overall there’ll be significant safety benefits for turning vehicles and pedestrians.”


Upgrading the city’s ring road is a priority for the Council, with all four corners of the ring road planned to be signalised.


The first of these, at Princess Street and Ferguson Street, was completed in 2005 and resulted in a significant increase in traffic on Ferguson Street because of the ease of driving through the intersection.


Similarly an increase in Grey Street traffic is expected with the installation of the Princess Street signals.


The contract for installing the signals has been awarded to Tarr Electrical with Higgins Construction undertaking the physical construction works.