Work is underway to install a new pedestrian bridge on Flat Bush School Road following public feedback in September 2020.
Many children walk in the area, and Auckland Transport (AT) and Howick Local Board want to ensure they get to and from school safely.
Howick Local Board chair Adele White says this will improve safety for people, particularly our local children, by providing a safe link to nearby schools.
“We were initially approached by the foundation board of Te Uho O Te Nikau who were supported by locals and the school community expressing their concerns regarding the safety of kids walking to school.
“It came as a huge surprise to the local board to find that this road posed such a safety risk, and that the road had not been upgraded prior to the school being built.
“We are glad that Auckland Transport has acted on their concerns. Even though delayed because of COVID-19, we hope this bridge will provide the kids and their families the safety they all deserve on the roads.”
Building on the northern side means the bridge will connect to existing footpaths and utilise the existing raised zebra crossing as a safe point for people to cross.
Te Uho o te Nikau Primary School Principal, Melanie Bland says the community is absolutely delighted that the pedestrian bridge is finally going to begin.
“It is long overdue. We cannot wait to see our learners and their families being able to walk safely in this community, whether it be riding their bikes, walking to and from school, or just exercising together.
"We would like to thank Auckland Transport and the Howick Local Board for their work on making this project a priority."
Auckland Transport’s group manager of network management Randhir Karma says the project was nominated by Howick Local Board to address community safety concerns.
“Projects like this are another step towards our goal of achieving no deaths or serious injuries on our roads.
“The project is supported by the Community Fund which is focused on tackling road safety concerns raised by the community. It is supported too with funding from the Regional Petrol Tax fund”.
Work has begun and expected to be completed by end of June 2021.
A summary of consultation feedback and AT responses to community questions can be found here.
