Wellington gets $6.4 billion public transport and infrastructure upgrade

A new multi-billion dollar transport upgrade for Wellington's infrastructure includes construction of an additional Mt Victoria Tunnel to ease traffic delays.

Let's Get Wellington Moving  (LGWM) will focus on developing mass transit, roading, public transport and cycling networks to make the CBD  more people friendly.

"The duplication of the 1931 Mt Victoria Tunnel and the proposed work at the Basin Reserve would remove one of the city's most significant impediments to through traffic, cycling and walking," said Councillor Chris Calvi-Freeman.

Of 10,000 people surveyed, the majority highlighted the Basin Reserve as an area that needs improvement. 

There was also strong support for an upgrade of mass transit.

The Government confirmed on Thursday it will support a $6.4 billion budget for the project, spanning two decades.

The last significant improvement to Wellington's transport network was the completion of the Terrace Tunnel in 1978.

"This is a momentous day for Wellington," said Mayor Justin Lester in a statement.

"[It is] one that shows we are putting people first," he continued.

Wellington's population will grow by 50,000 - 80,000 in the next 30 years and without improvement, public transport network would grind to halt.

"A public transport spine is crucial," said Lester. 

"It will help take private vehicles out of the CBD, which will also improve it for pedestrians,"

"We want to create a balanced transport network which will carry more people but with fewer vehicles," said Lester.

Newshub.