The Taupō Town Centre Transformation project is bringing some exciting changes to our town, including safer pedestrian and cycling access for Taupō Primary School.
The creation of a pedestrian mall on Horomatangi Street, a signalised pedestrian crossing on Titiraupenga Street, as well as additional pedestrian islands surrounding the school environment will all add to safer access points for school children.
School principal Zac Taylor said while there were concerns about the increased traffic flow due to through-traffic moving from Tongariro Street to Titiraupenga Street as a result of this project, he is confident that council has listened and addressed these concerns.
“We’re really excited about our tamariki being able to move safely and freely between so many areas as a result of these changes,” he said.
“The willingness of the council team to engage with the school and listen to our feedback has been pleasing, and we look forward to continuing to work with them on any possible future review of the project.”
“We’ve already seen that the Horomatangi/Ruapehu intersection work has taken on board our feedback around ensuring the changes are child friendly and provide clear sight lines, and this is continuing on Titiraupenga Street. The team has taken onboard the need for safe crossings at every intersection. These changes are going to allow tamariki to access the school safely, enabling them to walk or cycle safely to get here.”
School board chair Catriona Eagles said the school was also passionate about the pedestrian mall on Horomatangi Street and its benefits.
“We appreciate that there are going to be changes for us and our neighbours with this project - but we really feel it is a great result for everybody as a whole.”
“The Horomatangi pedestrian mall and the additional changes, including the signalised pedestrian crossing and safer intersection crossings, mean it will be less stressful getting children across that road, and safety is our number one priority.”
