Greens launch Auckland transport priorities

The Green Party launched its transport policy today with Auckland's first ever press conference on a bus. The bus will travel the route of the proposed CBD rail link, which the Green Party would make a funding priority.

"The Green Party backs Auckland's vision for transport," said Green Party transport spokesperson Gareth Hughes.

"We will work with whichever party leads the next Government to secure funding for 60 percent of the crucial rail CBD link project, starting construction in the next term.

"Auckland's buses can also be much better. We'll invest more than $500m in bus-related projects in Auckland to deliver a reliable, fast, and integrated bus system.

"We will make it safer to walk and cycle, with $30 million a year allocated for walking and cycling projects."

Mr Hughes said the bus tour would stop at Aotea Square, the site of the most important of the new proposed train stations on the underground route.

Co-leader Russel Norman said better bus and train services were good for all road users and essential for strengthening Auckland's economy.

"The Green Party's affordable, costed plan will deliver a 21st century transport network, safer neighbourhoods, and cleaner air while saving everyone money," said Dr Norman.

"The Key Government says it can't afford to future proof our transport network by fast tracking the CBD rail link, but they are wrong. We can't afford not to build it.

"Our transport plans cost less than National's and will be more effective at supporting the smart green economic development that Aucklanders want."

Auckland Transport Plan one-pager:
http://www.greens.org.nz/transport/auckland/plan