Webpoll voters divided on the Rutene Road cycleway route

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

The plan for a dual cycleway on Rutene Road drew a “no” from a majority of the 372 respondents to this week’s webpoll question.

Congestion, inconvenience and the small number of cyclists who would use it were the most frequent arguments against the plan. Many said money spent on the dual cycleway could be better spent on utilities.

“What a hare-brained idea for the few cyclists who might use it, not to mention the inconvenience to homeowners on Rutene Road,” said one person.

“I say no to the dual cycleway. Fix the overdue maintenance on our streets and ongoing sewage overflows.”

One cyclist was all for more cycleways through the city but saw congestion as an issue with the proposed cycleway for Rutene Road.

“Closing off side streets will only create huge traffic issues and bottlenecks at other areas. A dual cycleway also poses confusion and safety issues for cyclists trying to enter and exit the cycleway. Create safer ways for cyclists to get through the city, especially at roundabouts and truck routes, which are both dangerous and scary to use as a cyclist.”

Some saw the cycleway as a white elephant.

“Where do the Gisborne District Council and New Zealand Transport Agency think all these cyclists are coming from to use it?” said one.

“This road is far too busy and dangerous as it is.”

“I drove down Rutene Road today at rush hour and spotted three bicycles,” said another.

“There were 87 motor vehicles. Speaks for itself.”

Among the 42 percent (155) in favour of the plan was a respondent who said, “cycleways are great and keep cyclists safe.”

Another said Gisborne needed cycleways everywhere.

Eight percent (28 people) were undecided.

“My understanding is we are to have a cycleway in Wainui Road,” said one respondent.

“Either Rutene Road or Wainui Road but, please, only one is really needed. Money would be far better spent on our existing roads and poor footpaths.”

Another in the undecided camp thought the plan was a great idea, depending on the expense.

“There are so many important essential projects that need to be completed, like roads fixed and water drainage addressed. While I like to bike a lot, I find the constant spending by the council on nice-to-have projects fiscally irresponsible.”