Wellington's Second Mt Victoria Tunnel Project Fast-Tracked Despite Funding Concerns
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has started the fast-track process for its multibillion-dollar project to build a second Mt Victoria Tunnel in Wellington. The project, which also includes improvements to State Highway 1 and the Basin Reserve area, would significantly change inner-city roads.
NZTA said it was a 'significant milestone' for the project, but critics argue that it's being fast-tracked without proper funding or a start date for construction. The Wellington City Council has expressed concerns about the project, labeling it a 'ghost road' and advocating for less Town Belt land to be taken.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said the government is committed to delivering the project, which would improve productivity and give Wellingtonians a safer, faster, and more reliable connection between the region, the CBD, and the airport. However, councillors opposed to the plan say it 'utterly ignores' climate change by increasing car traffic.