We know the roadworks in Stokes Valley are causing disruption and congestion, and we understand how tough it is for everyone trying to get around. The works are essential for stabilising the hillside and reducing future slips, but we also recognise the challenges they pose to daily commuting. The project is expected to last at least nine months, with a substantial investment of $25 million to secure the area and ensure a safer future for all.
In the midst of these roadworks, finding alternative ways to get around becomes crucial. Here are some practical strategies to beat the congestion and make your daily commute smoother:
Carpooling: Talk to your neighbors, colleagues at work, or people at train station to explore carpooling options. Sharing a ride reduces the number of vehicles on the road, helping to ease traffic and save on fuel costs. You can also check out websites like Car Pool World.
Buses: Consider using public transport as an alternative as there are various routes to and from Stokes Valley. Check out the bus timetables below to plan your journey. Buses are an eco-friendly option and can provide a comfortable and stress-free ride. Use Metlinks Journey Planner tool to see the various bus routes.
Leave Early: The congestion typically starts building around 6:30 am, so try leaving a bit earlier if possible. By beating the rush hour, you can enjoy a smoother drive and potentially save time on your daily commute. Take the extra time to enjoy a morning coffee at your local coffee spot. We have seen that even a small percentage reduction in single-occupancy vehicles can make a significant difference in congestion levels. Choosing alternative transport methods benefits the community by making better use of the limited space we have.
Walking: With the beautiful river trail at the entrance to Stokes Valley, depending where you work, walking may be an option. The Pomare Train Station is 1.5km’s from the entrance to Stokes Valley.
Biking: Likewise jumping on your bike or e-scooter is another great option. The river trail & beltway cycleways both provide good connections into Lower Hutt CBD, or heading north to Upper Hutt. It’s also a great option to get to Pomare Train Station before jumping on a train.
It’s important to remember that these options wont be for everyone, there will people that simply must use a car. But for those that have the choice, everyone person that does, frees up one-less-car on the road for everyone else.
The roadworks may be inconvenient now, but they are a necessary investment to ensure the safety and stability of the area in the long run. Our aim is not only to reopen the road but to prevent similar incidents in the future. As we work together to navigate through this period of disruption, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Your efforts in this endeavor will go a long way in making the roadworks period more manageable and less stressful for all. Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this essential phase of our community’s development.