Waitematā Local Board has funded wayfinding signage for pedestrians across the local board area.
Networks of pathways connecting neighbouring streets, streets marked as ‘No Exit’ for vehicles and streets connecting to local parks, are now clearly signposted as pedestrian-friendly thanks to the project.
The board contributed $70,000 from its Local Board Transport Capital Fund towards the Wayfinding Signage Project which was completed by Auckland Transport in August 2020.
The idea for wayfinding signage on No Exit streets was originally proposed to the board by Waitematā resident and former president of Living Streets Aotearoa, Andy Smith.
No Exit street signs indicate to vehicle drivers there is no exit but don’t reveal if there is in fact accessway for walking and/or cycling. When Mr. Smith first approached the local board appropriate signage for No Exit streets had yet to be designed by Auckland Transport.
Mr. Smith, who passed away in July, was passionate about creating a world where sustainable, thriving, pedestrian-friendly communities were the norm.
Waitematā Local Board member and transport spokesperson Graeme Gunthorp said the board works closely with its communities to ensure delivery of transport-related projects that meet local needs.
"We’re really pleased that Auckland Transport responded to local aspirations, developed appropriate signage designs and worked with us to deliver this project.
“The wayfinding signage makes it that much easier for people to navigate around their local neighbourhoods, whether on foot or by bike or scooter.
“It has been especially noticed and utilised during lockdowns when more people are out exploring their neighbourhoods for recreation,” he said.
Waitematā Local Board Chair Richard Northey is also pleased with the results of the project saying a safe, accessible and sustainable transport network is one of the board’s priorities [PDF].
“Our Wayfinding Signage Project is another step towards improving enjoyable opportunities for walkers and riders across the local board area. I know Andy was really pleased to see his advocacy for signage on No Exit streets come to fruition,” he said.
Wayfinding signage has been installed across suburbs in the Waitematā local board area including Grey Lynn, Arch Hill, Eden Terrace, Ponsonby, Freemans Bay, Parnell, Newton, Western Springs, Westmere, Herne Bay, West Lynn, and the city centre.
