Greens push bold plant to cut congestion
June 11th, 2009
Green Party Co-Leader, Dr Russel Norman, has unveiled what he describes as a bold plan to cut traffic congestion, reduce air pollution and help the economy. “Our new Green Party policy will provide free public transport for all school students during school times and a 50% discount at other times. We would introduce the policy for a one-year trial, then review it.” Dr Norman says the policy would cost between $25m to $50m a year to roll out across NZ. “This trial would supplement our efforts to encourage walking and cycling to school. Most trips to school are less then 3km, so walking and cycling is usually the best option for children who live close to their school.”
Dr Norman says 56% of Auckland’s 250,000 schoolchildren get to school by car. “The Greens estimate this policy could take up to 20% of cars off Auckland roads at peak times – about 140,000 less cars. Taking vehicles off the road would lessen air pollution and cleaner air is better for the 25% of Auckland children who suffer from asthma.” He adds the policy works on four fronts. “It frees up gridlocked roads, cuts air pollution and helps our young people get more exercise, while saving some of the estimated $900m a year Auckland congestion costs the economy.”
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