Traffic congestion investigation nears completion

A report on the investigation into traffic movements through the northern part of Taupo's CBD and congestion at Norman Smith Street is nearly complete.

The investigation was fast-tracked following ongoing frustration with the current situation, and the 2017/18 Annual Plan includes $100,000 to explore options to remedy this congestion.

Operational services group manager Kevin Strongman said the council's awareness of queues of traffic at intersections including Norman Smith Street and the Spa Road roundabout necessitated the investigation, and a traffic consultant was engaged to identify options and look into traffic movement as well as factoring in projected population and visitor growth.

Our team also carried out consultation with community groups and interested parties including Mercury, Taupo Residents and Ratepayers' Group, Kinloch Residents' Association and Acacia Bay Residents' Association about the issues they face with northern access into town.

"We wanted to find out the causes behind the congestion and identify any and all appropriate solutions," Mr Strongman said. "And of course it's important we balance the traffic needs in this area with the cost to the ratepayer of any projects that could help improve the situation."

The investigation's findings will likely be delivered to councillors in the next few months, with options for the council to consider for inclusion in the next Long-term Plan that comes into effect in July next year.