Verbal Update from Co-Chairs

Cr McCallum thanked the committee for their work on the Long Term Plan for Road Transport and congratulated everyone on their efforts. He noted the funding result included a significant budget increase, which brings greater responsibility to deliver on commitments. He urged the committee to monitor programmes closely, be proactive with any delays, and ensure timely and responsible execution.

Cr Forbes reinforced Cr McCallum’s comments and encouraged committee members to speak up about any issues. She also highlighted a regional shift toward public and active transport, mentioning several initiatives:

• The Light Foot Challenge—a community initiative in Queenstown encouraging people to travel without cars. Seven members, including a local councillor, participated for a week.
• The Dunedin one-way service is expected to affect bus operations.
• Arrowtown locals supported a bus service via a Facebook survey aiming to fill several buses.
• Wintech in Waikato subsidised 50% of public transport fares (including trains) for learners, with plans to expand to Waikato University.
• Queenstown’s developments for cyclists and pedestrians include a new public transport hub.
• The Transport Research Network Symposium is scheduled for the end of November, with Cr Forbes reporting back afterward.

Cr Smith emphasized the importance of:

• Being aware of broader community-wide projects currently underway.
• Continuing progress on the work programme.
• Aligning with a broader strategy to ensure successful outcomes.

The committee agreed to implement a traffic light system in future reports to help keep items on track.