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Takaanini Station’s bridge is about to become accessible to the general public in time for the launch of the City Rail Link (CRL).
As previously reported, the local bridge (as well as another at the Te Mahia Station, Manurewa) were officially opened on August 11. From Saturday (September 12), the public will be able to use the bridge.
Other such bridges have also been coming online, replacing rail level crossings, Franklin Ward Councillor, Andy Baker explains.
“These bridges are the start of a much wider programme of work to remove or replace all rail level crossings in Auckland. That is as much about making sure we can run more trains, more often whilst significantly improving safety and bringing the days of vehicles queuing to wait at level crossings to an end.”
As Auckland Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee chair, Baker has been playing a lead role in the delivery of the region’s rail upgrades.
Separating pedestrians, cyclists and drivers from the railway tracks is key to allowing more trains, improving safety and keeping people moving, Baker says.
In preparation for the launch of the CRL on Sunday (September 13), 16 rail level crossings have been closed or replaced during the past decade, while all remaining pedestrian crossings have been upgraded with automatic safety gates.
The next step in Takanini is replacing remaining road level crossings with new road or pedestrian bridges. This work will begin in the second half of next year.
Manurewa-Papakura Ward councillors, Daniel Newman and Matt Winata, say the bridges are a huge win.
“As the Auckland Councillors for this community, we are very pleased with these station upgrades, which build on the recent openings of new stations at Drury and Paerata.”
Better crossings are needed as the CRL means there will be more frequent trains across Auckland. For this reason, extra care is needed, especially at crossings where there is work yet to be done, Auckland Transport’s head of level crossings, Tom Willetts confirms.
“There are still 39 rail level crossings which are used every day by drivers, cyclists and pedestrians,” he says.
“Trains are bigger, faster, quieter than you expect. So, stop, look and listen at rail crossings whether you’re in a car, truck, walking or cycling. When the barrier arms are down and gates are closed, it’s for a reason – to keep you safe.”
Construction has been a case of short-term pain to avoid longer term pain.
“We know construction has had an impact on the community and commuters and we’re grateful to both communities for their patience, understanding and support while we built these bridges. They’re an important investment and we’re proud to see them open for everyone to use.”
Click here to read our earlier story about the official opening of the Takanini and Manurewa bridges.
