Mayor pleased with $938m investment for roads in city and region

Hamilton City Council today welcomed a $938 million investment in the region's roads.

The announcement was made by the Transport Minister, Stephen Joyce, as part of the $8.7 billion National Land Transport Programme.

"I am delighted the Government has come through on a commitment made at the election to advance critical roading in the region," says Hamilton mayor Bob Simcock.

"Since the Government took office it has demonstrated a real commitment to infrastructure projects like the Waikato Expressway and Te Rapa Bypass to advance economic development in the region."

However, Mayor Simcock says he is disappointed there is less money for other transport initiatives.

"Given the significant increase in announced funding for roads we cannot be totally surprised they have restricted funding for alternative modes of transport – public transport, walking and cycling. This is disappointing, when we have seen a dramatic increase in the use of public transport in Hamilton."

"While we can live with limited spending on alternatives to cars for a time it cannot be a permanent state of affairs. A vibrant metropolitan centre like Hamilton needs to continue developing its public transport options."