The upgrade of Putney Way into a pedestrian-friendly main street for central Manukau in south Auckland has begun.
The upgrade will include a new single-level surface extending from the new bus station to the opposite pathway.
Native trees will be planted along both sides of the street to make up rain gardens that help to clean stormwater before it reaches drains.
New lighting will also be installed to create a stronger sense of safety for evening commuters and residents.
A local group has been invited to design artwork for the light panels.
Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Lotu Fuli says it’s great to see changes in Manukau that benefit the community.
“This type of street design is the first of its kind for central Manukau, improving the area for pedestrians and encouraging use of the new bus station, which sits at the heart of the south Auckland public transport network.”
The upgrade is being carried out by Auckland Transport on behalf of the city’s urban regeneration agency Panuku Development Auckland.
Panuku project director Clive Fuhr says the upgrade of Putney Way is part of the overarching plan to transform Manukau into the thriving heart and soul for the south.
“This is the first of a series of projects for 2018 that will help rebalance the impact of roads, car parks and large buildings, making the area more people-friendly.”
Putney Way will be closed to vehicles for the duration of the upgrade, which is expected to be completed by mid-2018.
Sections of the northern pathway will also be closed to pedestrians, with way-finding signage to guide users.
