Get moving: Transit working to free Albany bottleneck

Q: What a bottleneck the main street of Albany is! The council seems to be spending a huge amount on a median strip and lights, but the main highway with two lanes has to get into one lane to get through. Also, traffic coming down The Avenue has to queue for ages waiting to get out to the main road. Is there going to be any improvement in this area? Robyn Goldsmith, Albany.

A: North Shore City Council is aware of the problems around Albany Village at peak times. Consultation with residents and business people indicated that a village atmosphere is desirable.

Access to shops and parking, and safety for pedestrians, means that a reasonably slow traffic pace is warranted, hence the median strip and lights.

The narrow Lucas Creek bridge creates a bottleneck as well, with traffic heading east along the main road (State Highway 17) and those trying to access it from The Avenue.

As it is a state highway, Transit is responsible for it, but it is working with the council to find a way of improving the State Highway 17-The Avenue intersection.

A new bus stop at the Oteha Valley Rd extension with links to the Albany Busway Station and Massey University should make it more convenient for people to use public transport and reduce congestion.

Q: Morrin Rd is very wide, so why isn't there a white line all the way along? Also, the top end of Morrin Rd at Ladies Mile is very steep and sorely needs left and right turning lanes. Are they going to happen? Chris Daisley, Mt Roskill.

A: The white line is scheduled to be put in place next month. Morrin Rd at the Ladies Mile end is not wide enough to have two lanes and still provide space for large vehicles.

If the intersection operated as two lanes, then left-turning vehicles could obstruct the view of those turning right, making it more dangerous.