The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has approved a new plan to improve the region’s transportation system over the next decade. This plan, called the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) 2024-2034, will guide the region’s transport strategy and help it secure government funding.
The plan aims to address several transport challenges as the region continues to grow. These include reducing traffic congestion, improving public transport connections to affordable housing, enhancing road safety, and making the transport network more resilient to climate change. The plan also focuses on improving transport access for smaller and isolated communities.
The RLTP has identified several key projects for funding consideration by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. These projects will be spread across different parts of the Bay of Plenty region.
The plan was developed with input from the community, who voiced concerns about congestion due to rapid growth, and expressed strong support for improving public transport services. Efficient freight movement to support local businesses and the economy was also a priority for many.
The plan will now be sent to the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi for funding consideration. The funding decisions will be published in the National Land Transport Programme, which is expected to be released in September 2024.
