Agenda of Regional Transport Committee

Action Items

Attachment 1

Actions from Regional Transport Committee Meetings

The following is a list of items raised at the Regional Transport Committee meetings that require actions or follow-ups. All action items indicate who is responsible for each action, when it is expected to be completed and a brief status comment for each action. Once the items have been completed and reported back to the Committee they will be removed from the list.

Agenda Item	Action	Person Responsible	Due Date	Status Comment
State Highway 38 – Request for Sealing	To be left on the list for regular follow-ups		ongoing
NZTA Director’s report	Further update on Mohaka bridge and Waitangi Bridge	NZTA	8 July 2011	Update to be provided at meeting.
Supporting Public Health	Meeting to discuss proposed recommendation on approach	Carol Gilbertson /Tracey Ashworth	May	Letter of Endorsement sent from RTC Chairman.
Hastings District Council Transportation Study	Update on workshop undertaken on heavy transport	CG/HDC	September	To be scheduled when HDC are in position to present on this.
NZTA Director’s Report	Prepare a report on current situation of Tahaenui Bridge	MK NZTA	8 July	Update to be provided at meeting.
Objective & Advisory Reps Report	Update on Paki Paki Speed Limit following meeting on 25 May	Mark Kenvig, Ken Holst - NZTA/CW	8 July	Update to be provided at meeting.
High Productivity Motor Vehicle routes (HPMV)	Update from NZTA at July meeting.	MK	8 July	Item included on RTC agenda.
Streamlining	Update from NZTA at July meeting.	MK	8 July	Update to be provided at meeting.
RLTP/10 Year Plan Project Timeline	CHBDC and NCC to provide this then CG to send out with minutes.	JS/SM/CG	8 July	Included with RTC papers.

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Regional Transport Committee

Friday 08 July 2011

SUBJECT: Transport Manager's Report

REASON FOR REPORT

1. This regular report will now be provided to the Committee from the Transport Manager to give a snapshot of relevant transport issues; issues that have been actioned since the last RTC; an update on progress on studies and plans underway; and what’s coming up within the transport sector.

Achievements Since Last the RTC Meeting on 20 April 2011

2. Government Policy Statement (GPS) Submission

2.1. On 26 April the Ministry of Transport released the proposed direction for the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport Funding for 2012/13 to 2021/22. The Technical Advisory Group (TAG) discussed this at their May meeting and a submission was sent to the GPS Development Team from the RTC Chairman on 27 May, a copy of this submission is attached for the Committee’s information (see Attachment 1).

3. Transport Summit

3.1. The Regional Council Chairman, Regional Transport Committee Chairman and Transport Manager attended the Transport Summit in Auckland on 1 and 2 June. Keynote speakers included the Minister of Transport, Chief Executives from Ministry of Transport, KiwiRail, New Zealand Transport Agency, Auckland Transport, and President of Local Government New Zealand. While the content of the Summit was very “Auckland focussed” there was interesting information relating to transport from a national perspective; and as always a great opportunity to network.

4. Environment Canterbury RTC Letter to Hawke’s Bay RTC

4.1. At the last RTC meeting a letter from Environment Canterbury was tabled relating to supporting public health and productivity improvements by reallocating funding to active transport modes. It was requested that HBRC staff meet with District Health Board staff to discuss this letter. This has been done and a letter has now been sent to the Minister of Transport stating that the Hawke’s Bay RTC endorses the approach taken by Environment Canterbury, which requested that the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Health work collaboratively to ensure funding for active modes can be achieved better. This approach arose from the 2010 Health Impact Assessment undertaken by Canterbury RTC, Canterbury DHB and Christchurch City Council as part of their review of their Regional Land Transport Strategy (RLTS), key recommendations from their assessment were:

4.1.1. Improve mobility for the transport disadvantaged

4.1.2. Increase public understanding of the true costs of transport

4.1.3. Enhance urban design and land use planning to improve active lifestyles

4.1.4. Undertake education and marketing to increase awareness of the links between public health and transport

4.1.5. Reduce private vehicle dependence

4.1.6. Ensure that regulation and enforcement support public health benefits

4.1.7. Ensure funding and investment supports public health benefits

4.1.8. Improve active transport infrastructure

4.1.9. Enhance public transport services and infrastructure

4.1.10. Support increased energy efficiency and environmental sustainability

4.1.11. Support the efficient and effective movement of freight; and

4.1.12. Ensure effective representation.

4.2. Hawke’s Bay RTC could look at some of these areas for improvement when undertaking our RLTS in particular:

4.2.1. Enhance urban design and land use planning to improve active lifestyles

4.2.2. Undertake education and marketing to increase awareness of the links between public health and transport.

4.3. It was considered that the RTC could learn from what Canterbury has found with their impact assessment and use this in the development of the RLTS.

Current Issues

5. Classification System for State Highways

5.1. The NZTA has confirmed the state highway classification system following consultation earlier this year. A copy of this confirmation is attached (Attachment B). A copy of the final north and south island classification maps are included in the Regional Directors report. It is pleasing to see the national strategic, high volume route for Napier/Hastings was confirmed as originally proposed. The next stage in this process is to discuss the proposed levels of service for each category of state highway.

6. Consultation on Funding Assistant Rates (FARs)

6.1. The New Zealand Transport Agency have commenced consultation on proposed changes to some Funding Assistant Rates (FARs) and the grant for land transport activities, with changes being incorporated into the 2012 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP). FARs are used to determine what portion of a project or programme could be funded from the NLTP. The proposed changes are a result of recent policy, priority and/or delivery model changes. The proposed changes are:

· Passenger transport facilities operations and maintenance (down from 60% FAR to 50%)

· Public transport infrastructure (down from 60% FAR to 50% FAR)

· Regional land transport planning management (grant to regional councils removed completely from 0.15% of relevant RLTP to zero)

· Transport planning studies and strategies (down from 75% to [unconfirmed] 65% based on weighted average construction FAR for the region)

· Road safety community programmes (down from 75% to [unconfirmed] 65% based on weighted average construction FAR for the region)

6.2. The impact of these changes will be significant for both the Regional Council and the Territorial Authority’s, considering the funding cuts signalled in the proposed GPS. The removal of the planning management grant is of greatest concern to the Regional Council and has implications for Council’s ability to undertake current levels of regional land transport planning (principally the Regional Land Transport Strategy and Regional Land Transport Programme). The discussion document states the rationale for removing the grant is “to align with the directions signalled in the GPS 2012 engagement document to improve efficiencies in the transport planning activity class”. The Regional Council will need to decide whether to continue with its current level of service in this area and the impact on general rates in the region. Coupled with the reductions in budgets for TA’s the impact in the region on ratepayers could be significant.

6.3. The proposed “weighted average construction FAR” formula has been indicated for Hawke’s Bay is likely to be 65%, but this is yet to be confirmed.

6.4. The Transport Manager is attending a workshop with Regional Council officers from around the country on 1 July to discuss the implications of these proposed changes and agree on a consistent sector response and will provide a further verbal update at the RTC. Feedback closes on 21 July and it is NZTA’s intention to confirm new rates in August 2011.

7. Land Transport Management Act (LTMA) Review

7.1. On Wednesday, 27 June the Ministry of Transport issued a press release advising that Cabinet has approved changes to transport planning legislation as part of ongoing efforts “to cut unnecessary red tape and get New Zealand moving”. Transport Minister Steven Joyce says amendments to the Land Transport Management Act 2003 (LTMA) will make the transport planning process simpler, more streamlined and less prescriptive. Changes in the Bill include:

7.1.1. Almost halving the number of transport committee members around the country from 228 to 118.

7.1.2. Halving the number of formal transport plans or strategies required around the country from 35 to 18.

7.1.3. Removing barriers to the use of the tolling and public private partnership provisions in the LTMA.

7.1.4. Implement a previous Cabinet decision to halt the introduction of regional fuel taxes, which would have added further costs to road users and been an expensive and inefficient means of gathering revenue.

7.2. At the time of sending out the RTC agenda the detail around the next steps with this review is not known. A verbal update will be provided at the RTC meeting, following discussions from the meeting being held in Wellington on 1 July.

8. Current Studies and Planning Documents Underway

8.1. Heretaunga Plains Transportation Study (HPTS)

8.1.1. This study is being undertaken for Hastings District, Napier City and Hawke’s Bay Regional Councils along with the New Zealand Land Transport Agency (NZTA), with the latter being the principle funder. A study management and technical group (SMTG) is over viewing both the management and technical inputs from each of the study partners and over viewing the work of the primary consultant, GHD Limited.

8.1.2. The study commenced in March 2010 and originally had a target date for completion of late May/ early June 2011. This date has since been extended due to delays which have arisen in the course of the study. While not unusual for this type of study, they were complex and consequently time consuming to resolve. Funding of $200,000 was carried forward to the 2011/12 year.

8.1.3. These issues lay firstly in the Peer Review process (now completed), secondly in relation to some technical elements in the model (e.g. connections between links, assigned travel speeds, placement of zone centroids and the size/position of some of the traffic zones) (changes made and being re-tested) and thirdly, with the employment and landuse forecasts developed from the HPUD Study findings (currently being made, still to be re-tested).

8.1.4. The expected completion date is therefore now August 2011, assuming there are no more unexpected technical issues which cause further delays.

8.1.5. Even with the issues outlined, the SMTG can report that the model has been built and signed of by the Peer Reviewer (the Peer Review Report is complete but not yet formally adopted by the SMTG). This means that a “base” network has been tested, calibrated and validated. Draft landuse and deficiency analysis reports have also been completed.

8.1.6. Subsequently the consultants have used the model to test the “do minimum network” performance against around 30 options (possible projects to relieve future network deficiencies) and “rough order” benefit/cost ratios for those projects have been generated.

8.1.7. It was in fact this work that raised a number of the technical and landuse issues with the model that are presently being resolved.

8.1.8. All reports completed to date will be considered and adopted only once the SMTG understands the impact of the current corrections on the model and its calibration.

8.1.9. The next stage of work is to combine the various options tested to date, into packages and to undertake evaluations of those. This work will enable the best mix(s) of projects to be selected and incorporated into a programme for consideration by the RTC and partners as a whole.

8.1.10. To conclude, while the delays are now putting considerable pressure on the delivery dates for the work, the changes being made will improve the models capabilities (i.e. allow it to produce better, more reliable traffic forecasts) and ensure that it is suitable for wider use over time.

8.1.11. However and assuming the revised delivery dates are met, the consultant, GHD, will be preparing and making a presentation to the RTC on the findings of the study in September.

8.2. Wider Region Transportation Study (WRTS)

8.2.1. This study is being undertaken for the Wairoa, Hastings and Central Hawke’s Bay District Councils, the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council and the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), who are the principle funder.

8.2.2. A study management group (SMG) is over viewing the study and advising the principle consultant, Mr Tonks of EMS (Environmental Management Services Limited), Napier on data and information sources.

8.2.3. The study commenced in February 2011 and originally had a target date for completion of late June 2011. The anticipated completion date is now the end of July 2011. This extension of time arose from delays in starting while funding awaited approval and also to enable better co-ordination of the study with the HPTS (in particular to ensure freight data is shared).

8.2.4. This study was broken up into 3 distinct stages. Stage one is effectively a data acquisition and analysis phase which will help identify the key issues affecting the wider regions transport network at present and into the future to 2040. This phase is now complete. Stage 2 requires the consultant to analyse the network issues and deficiencies identified (e.g. changes in freight volumes, sources and locations, bridge structural loading limits, safety) and to determine which projects best resolve them, especially in terms of the Governments GPS and IRS directives for economic efficiency. The Stage 2 brief then requires the formulation of a programme to implement these solutions over time. At this time the consultant expects to deliver this work in accord with the revised time line.

8.2.5. Lastly the consultant will then be preparing and making a presentation to the RTC on the findings of the study (this is required under Stage 3 of the brief) in September.

8.3. Regional Public Transport Plan

8.3.1. A draft document will be distributed to the Project Team in early July then will go to the Regional Council for adoption late July to start the public consultation process in early August. Input from key stakeholders has been undertaken and included in the draft Plan. The draft farebox recovery policy, required to be part of this Plan, has been sent to NZTA for their comment.

8.4. Regional Land Transport Strategy

8.4.1. In June 2010 the Council initiated a review of the Regional Land Transport Strategy (RLTS). The Committee agreed that the RLTS that was adopted in 2008 provided a solid foundation for the 2012 review. Furthermore the Committee endorsed the vision and strategic objectives of the RLTS 2008, to be included into the draft RLTS 2012 subject to any amendments identified through the consultation process. Overall it was not expected that wholesale changes in strategic direction would be required due to the short period of time between the adoption of the previous RLTS and the 2012 review.

8.4.2. To date the Council has completed a number of tasks in the review of the RLTS. These include: assessing the existing strategy to determine its degree of compliance with the LTMA 2008, considering the ongoing relevance of the current strategy’s stated vision/objectives and assessing the effectiveness of the strategy. The results from these reviews where presented as a discussion document was publicly notified for community engagement and consultation. Presently the Council is compiling and updating the background information and statistics for inclusion into the RLTS.

8.4.3. Section 77(i) of the LTMA 2008 requires that a statement is provided by an independent auditor of how the process followed by the RTC complied with the requirements of the Act. The Council has engaged Mr Barry Main to act in this capacity and will begin working with Mr Main in August to fulfill the requirements of the Act.

8.5. Spreadsheet of Studies and Plans

8.5.1. Attached for the committee’s information (Attachment C) is a spreadsheet that shows an inventory of studies, strategies and plans that are in place or currently underway by the Territorial Authorities, HBRC and NZTA, that are relevant to the RTC and the drafting of the Regional Land Transport Programme. This inventory is being made into a visual flow chart to show which documents inform and give effect to other plans.

8.6. Timeline for RLTP

8.6.1. Attached for the Committee’s information (Attachment D) is a project timeline of key dates for the development of the Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP). More information on this timeline for the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) and RLTP will be covered in the presentation from NZTA.

Looking Ahead

9. The Regional Public Transport Plan will go out for public consultation in August. Following the close of submissions public Hearings will be held to give submitters an opportunity to verbally present their submissions.

10. The development of the Regional Land Transport Programme will be the main focus for the Committee at their next RTC meeting in September.

11. Drafting the Regional Land Transport Strategy will also be a focus over the coming months.

12. Changes in policy and legislation will continue to be an ongoing focus over the next few months.

DECISION MAKING PROCESS

13. Council is required to make a decision in accordance with Part 6 Sub-Part 1, of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Staff have assessed the requirements contained within this section of the Act in relation to this item and have concluded that, as this report is for information only and no decision is to be made, the decision making provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 do not apply.

RECOMMENDATION

1. That the Committee receives the Transport Manager’s report.

Carol Gilbertson

Transport Manager

Paul Drury

Group Manager Corporate Services

Attachment/s

1 View	Submission on GPS
2 View	Confirmation of SH Classification
3 View	Spreadsheet of Studies and Plans	Under Separate Cover
4 View	Project Timeline - RLTP	Under Separate Cover

Our Ref: TRA1

27 May 2011

GPS Development Team

Ministry of Transport

PO Box 3175

WELLINGTON 6140

Attention: Marian Willberg

Dear Ms Willberg

SUBMISSION ON PROPOSED DIRECTION FOR THE GOVERNMENT POLICY STATEMENT ON LAND TRANSPORT FUNDING

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport Funding 2012/12 – 2021/22 (GPS 2012). The Hawke’s Bay Regional Transport Committee (RTC) supports the GPS 2012 overall but has a number of concerns relating to maintenance and improvement funding for local roads.

Strategic Direction for GPS 2012

1. The RTC supports the three priorities of a strong and continuing focus on economic growth and productivity; a value-for-money approach and the focus on road safety.

2. The RTC supports the inclusion of a statement of strategic direction in the GPS 2012 to set out the government’s overall vision for the transport sector. The RTC also supports the development of an overall transport plan as this will provide guidance in the development of the Regional Land Transport Strategy and Regional Land Transport Programme. The RTC looks forward to reviewing the Forward Plan and providing comments to the Ministry.

Removal of the short to medium-term focus on economic stimulus

3. The RTC notes that the GPS 2012 intends to moves away from the short to medium-term focus on economic stimulus that was apparent in the GPS 2009. It cautions that increased funding should be made available for the maintenance of new infrastructure and existing infrastructure in future budgets as maintaining an emphasis on improvement projects without increasing maintenance will lead to declining levels of service on local roads and state highways.

Roads of National Significance

4. The RTC confirms that the intent of the Road of National Significance status is appropriate and notes that the Hawke’s Bay Expressway has been identified as a high value highway which could be considered to be a RON in the future.

5. The Expressway is currently considered to be a route of national strategic importance based on high volume of traffic, importance for freight movement including access to the Port of Napier and the need to improve safety. The Expressway is a vital freight link between Napier/Hastings, the Port of Napier and to other regions. This is confirmed by the results of the Heretaunga Plains Transportation Study and the NZTA Corridor Study.

6. The RTC is concerned that the GPS 2012 seems to neglect the importance of feeder roads into the State Highway network, particularly the maintenance of local roads and their relative level of service. In order to have a fully integrated transportation network the maintenance and capital spend on local roads must be considered.

Road Safety

7. Road safety has been identified as one of the key priorities for the GPS 2012. The RTC supports the move towards a long-term vision and supporting road safety targets, but notes that the GPS 2012 has moved funding from a balance of education, enforcement and engineering (EEE) to focus funding on physical safety infrastructure. The RTC believe that this shift coupled with the reduction in maintenance funding will have negative impacts on safety and asks that more emphasis be placed on the education aspect of road safety as well as physical engineering options.

Canterbury earthquake recovery

8. The RTC supports the rebuilding of Canterbury as a priority in the GPS 2012, however is concerned that funding for the rebuild will be sourced from local budgets and will reduce the amount of funding available for maintenance, renewals and improvements in the Hawke’s Bay local road network. It requests the Ministry looks at funding for rebuilding Christchurch from capital projects, for example delaying State Highway improvements.

Funding

9. The RTC is concerned that the lowering of the funding ranges for maintenance will have a negative effect on the level of service provided on local roads. There are currently a number of contributing factors which are placing increasing demands on local share maintenance budgets.

10. The GPS 2012 fails to provide for an increase in extreme climatic conditions. An increasing number of seasonal fluctuations in weather, for example the localised ‘rain bombs’ which hit Hawke’s Bay in early May, are requiring additional local funds when emergency funds are not available. This presents problems for smaller communities who are already struggling to match NZTA contributions through local funding. Local Roading Authorities are forced to divert funds from scheduled maintenance to fund unforeseen maintenance. As a result of this, levels of service have dropped, for example pavements are left longer before they are renewed and this ultimately results in higher costs as what was once a maintenance issue becomes a renewal.

11. The RTC is concerned that the GPS 2012 focuses on increasing infrastructure while seemingly neglecting maintenance. It is concerned that this is short sighted in the long term, i.e it increases future liabilities while neglecting declining assets.

Funding Ranges – Public Transport Services

12. The RTC is concerned about the impact of fuel increases on public transport services and notes that the proposed GPS 2012 provides some increase in public transport services but specifies that this is for metro rail. With the increase of fuel prices more passengers will use public transport in the future and this needs to be recognised in all regions, not just the metropolitan areas.

R Funds

13. NZTA has indicated that prospective projects, utilising R funds, must be committed by March 2015 and spent by 1 July 2016. The RTC is of the view that high yielding projects in Hawke’s Bay should not be constrained by time restrictions. Projects that are shown to be good for the region may not be completed by this date and the RTC requests that NZTA and the Ministry of Transport be flexible with their timelines for spending of R funds to ensure the funds are used on the best projects.

Thank you again for the opportunity to comment on the proposed GPS 2012. If you have any queries regarding this submission, please contact Carol Gilbertson, Transport Manager on (06) 835 9216.

Yours sincerely

Alan Dick QSO

Chairman

Hawke’s Bay Regional Transport Committee

Regional Director's Report - June

Attachment 1

To:

Hawke’s Bay Regional Transport Committee

From:

Jenny Chetwynd – NZTA Regional Director Central

Date:

30 June 2011

The purpose of this report is:

· to provide an update on NZTA’s role in the delivery of the Regional Land Transport Strategy and the National Land Transport Programme in the Hawke’s Bay Region

· to provide an update on key initiatives that may impact the strategic development of the regional transport network

1.0 NLTP IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE

1.1 Update on State Highway and Network Ops Activities in the NLTP

The 2010/2011 financial year will end this month with the majority of deliverables on track and the network in good health in spite of recent storm events.

The Te Mahanga North passing lane is complete and is proving beneficial to enhance the efficiency of our southern access. Construction of the Poukawa Swamp Southbound passing lane will start after the Rugby World Cup. Unfortunately the culvert being constructed to replace the Mangakino Bridge on SH38 was significantly damaged in the April storm event and construction work to rebuild the damaged culvert will not recommence until next summer.

State highway preparations for activities planned to manage the impacts of the Rugby World Cup are finalised. The most notable interventions proposed include the installation of a temporary 80 km/h speed restriction on the expressway covering the Meeanee Quay intersection and airport entrance, and the painting of lane arrows at key access points across the network.

We are currently working very closely with Hastings District Council to develop a plan to achieve safe access for pedestrians and cyclists across the expressway at the Omahu and York intersections, to compliment the Model Communities initiative.

The 2010/11 renewals programme for the region is now complete, with the state highway network in good condition in spite of the April storm events. Clean up work in response to these events is now largely completed. There are minor service level restrictions in place at Waikouau Hill (SH2 north of Napier) and Tarawera (SH 5) resulting from loss of the road foundation. In both cases temporary realignment has been provided to maintain two lane access. We will complete full restoration after winter.

Unfortunately there have been a number of heavy vehicle (non injury) crashes recently that have resulted in closure of the network and caused some disruption to travel. We are working closely with the Police and our access and use section to determine whether there are any opportunities to minimise the effects of future events.

In June 2011 the NZTA Board met in Napier and took the opportunity to meet with local stakeholders. They were impressed with the activities and initiatives that we are pursuing in Hawke’s Bay and the relationships that we enjoy with our stakeholders.

Further details on the regional State highway programme are available in Appendix 1, with a detailed update on state highway bridge issues and state highway classification provided in section 2.

1.2 Update on Recent NLTP Funding Approvals by the NZTA:

· Walking and Cycling model communities project $3,464,800

· Emergency works following storm/flood damage $3,524,600

· Hawke’s Bay Expressway Southern extension $300,100

2.0 OTHER NZTA & MOT INITIATIVES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

2.1 GPS update

Significance to RTC:

Impact on future NLTP development

Details:

The Ministry of Transport sought the views of Local Government New Zealand and other key stakeholders, including Regional Transport Committees, on the proposed direction and structure of the next Government Policy Statement on Land Transport Funding 2012/13–2021/22 (GPS 2012). A revised GPS is expected to be released in mid 2011.

2.2 Planning and Investing for Outcomes

Significance to RTC

Impact on future RLTP and NLTP development

Details

The Planning and Investing for Outcomes project (formerly referred to as Streamlining) is working towards streamlining the transport planning, programming and funding allocation system, with the intent of improving customer service and reducing compliance costs. The project intends to move the NZTA from a focus on funding for outputs, towards investing for outcomes as we move into the next NLTP.

At a national level this will mean an increased focus of investment based upon achieving the most effective outcomes in line with the impacts in our Statement of Intent (which are aligned to the GPS impacts).

For the Hawke’s Bay region, key implications of this approach are that the Planning and Investment Group (formerly Regional Partnerships and Planning) will work with the region to ensure common alignment of outcomes are delivered between the RLTP and the impacts in our Statement of Intent, ongoing value for money improvements in relation to asset management and reducing compliance costs and procedure through increased autonomy.

Delaney Myers has recently been appointed as the Planning and Investment Manager covering the upper NZTA Central region, including the Hawke’s Bay region. Delaney is based in Palmerston North and will lead work with the region on its RLTP development.

2.3 Financial Assistance Rate (FAR) Reviews

Significance to RTC

Impact on future RLTP and NLTP development

Details

The NZTA Board wants to ensure investment form the NLTP is delivering on the government’s objectives and achieving value for money.

To achieve this, a wider review of funding assistance rates (FARs) will be carried out collaboratively with the sector during 2013 with any changes implemented in the 2015-18 NLTP.

Some FARs, for example those for Public Transport and Transport Planning, will be reviewed earlier, with any changes implemented in the 2012-15 NLTP. In addition, the base FAR for all AOs are being recalculated, to ensure they remain appropriate. The NZTA is consulting with Hawke’s Bay and other approved organisations on the proposed changes.

NZTA will provide more information on this review at the RTC meeting.

2.4 2012-15 RLTP and NLTP Development

Significance to RTC

Future RLTP and NLTP development

Details

NZTA has started working with council staff on the development of the 2012-15 Regional Land Transport Programme as a key input into the 2012-15 National Land Transport Programme.

A number of the initiatives presented below are key in the development of the RLTP and subsequent NLTP. The timelines for developing these programmes and the links between initiatives will be discussed at the Committee meeting. Key dates include:

· Draft RLPT entered into Land Transport Online 30 September 2011

· Approved RLTP submitted into Land Transport Online 30 April 2012

· NLTP approved by NZTA Board 30 June 2012

2.5 Regional State Highway Asset Management Plan

Significance to RTC

Impacts on 2011/12 and 2012/15 RLTP and NLTP process.

Details

The Highways and Network Operations group within NZTA are required to prepare a first draft of the Regional Asset Management Plan by the end of June. NZTA has been working with the Regional Technical Advisory Group to ensure that this first cut will reflect as closely as possible what will be put to the Regional Land Transport Committee for consideration and inclusion in the 2012/15 Regional Land Transport Plan. There is obviously a lot of work yet to be completed before any plan is finalised.

Key inputs to date have been the preliminary outcomes from the Heretanga Plains Transportation Study, the HPMV investigation and outcomes from our Safety Management systems.

2.6 Land Transport Management Act Review

Significance to RTC

Potential impact on structure, focus and opeation of RTC

Details

The Land Transport Management Act was enacted on 12 November 2003 and was significantly updated in 2008. Further proposed changes to the Act have just been announced by the Government to enable the Act to be made simpler, more streamlined and less prescriptive. It is expected amending legislation will be introduced to Parliament in the second half of 2011 or early 2012.

Details of the proposed changes are due to be circulated to all Mayors, CEs and RTC chairs shortly. Further information is also available on the Ministry of Transport website: www.transport.govt.nz/legislation/acts/LandTransportManagementAct/

2.7 High Productivity Motor Vehicle (HPMV) routes

Significance to RTC

Supporting the provision of effective connections for economic growth and productivity

Details

Investigation work looking at HPMV implementation opportunities for Hawke’s Bay has been undertaken as a project involving all territorial authorities and other affected stakeholders.

The project is almost complete and a presentation will be given at the RTC meeting on the outcomes to date. We will provide a report following this presentation

2.8 State Highway Classification

Significance to RTC

Impacts on regional state highway networks and NLTP development.

Details

Following engagement on the proposed SH Classification earlier in the year, the NZTA has now considered feedback and determined the final classification.

The system puts all state highways into one of four categories: national strategic (with a high volume subset), regional strategic, regional connector or regional distributor. Highways have been classified according to criteria such as the size of population centres they serve, the volume of traffic they carry, freight volumes and tourist numbers.

In the Hawke’s Bay region no changes were made to the draft classification, with the final version shown in Attachment 2 of this report.

The classification system is now being used to help develop the NZTA’s State Highway Network Strategy, which will provide the direction for managing New Zealand’s state highway network over the next 30 years. The State Highway Strategy will include proposed levels of service for each category of highway, which will in turn inform the design, maintenance and operations needed to provide that level of service.

The NZTA thanks the region for their input and looks forward to further discussions later this year on proposed levels of service, as part of the engagement on the draft State Highway Network Strategy. Further information on the State highway classification system is available at www.nzta.govt.nz/consultation/classification-system/docs/q-and-a.pdf.

2.9 Model Communities

Significance to RTC

Regional significance

Details

The Model Communities initiative continues to make good progress with development of infrastructure and road markings. The Hastings District Council has been actively promoting the initiative in the community and education and training is being provided in schools.

2.10 Regional State Highway Bridging Issues

Significance to RTC

Possible impacts on the RLTP and supporting the provision of effective connections for economic growth and productivity

Details

There has been significant activity involving the region’s structural engineering resources over the last six months.

Work required to improve the security of the Mohaka Bridge on SH5 is now complete and the risk profile associated with this has returned to a normal status. The restrictions on holders of continuous permits for the movement of overweight loads have been lifted.

Outstanding issues relate to the timing requirements for the programmed deck replacement and HPMV capability of the Mohaka Bridge. The release of the final engineering report on these issues is imminent. At this stage it appears likely that this report will conclude that:

· there is an opportunity to carry out intensive specialised maintenance on the deck that will extend the life of the existing deck and defer the replacement timing, and

· the bridge will be cleared for HPMV use following completion of this maintenance and some very low key structural strengthening of a small number of key strucural elements.

Testing work on the Waitangi-Tutakuri Bridge is complete and the investigation report is now being finalised. It appears most likely that this report will conclude that there is an opportunity for the region to defer the programmed replacement of this bridge for possibly 15 years by carrying out further maintenance work. Given the demands for improving the efficiency of other routes in the region this approach is likely to be the better value for money option.

We expect that we will be able to confirm the findings of the structural review for both bridges at the next meeting.

Regional Director's Report - June

Attachment 1

Appendix 1: Hawke’s Bay Regional State Highway and Network Operations Activities in the NLTP

The following table provides an update on state highway activities in the National Land Transport Programme. Progress against the NLTP is shown as follows:

Green: achieved or on track to deliver against the NLTP (as at August 2009)

Amber: issues affecting deliver against NLTP expectations

Red: initiative/project phase at significant risk of not being deliver or completed e.g. due to a fall in funding priorities

NLTP Activity - (Committed, probable and possible phases only)	Phase	Status	Comment
Renewals		OK
Operation and Maintenance		OK
New and Improved infrastructure
Matahorua Gorge Realignment	Construction	OK	Complete Opened 11 March 2011.
SH50 Southern Extension (HB Expressway)	Construction	OK	Complete Opened 11 March 2011.
Waipukurau Overbridge Realignment	Construction	OK	Complete
Dillons Hill Realignment	Construction	OK	Complete
Dillons Hill Realignment Stage 2	Construction	OK	Complete
Mohaka Seismic Retrofit	Construction	OK	Complete
SH5 Glengarry Hill North & Southbound Stock Effluent	Construction	OK	Complete March 2011
Te Mahanga Nth - Passing Lane	Construction	OK	Complete Opened May 2011.
SH2 South of SH50 Passing Lane	Construction	OK	Complete Opened Feb 2011.
SH2 Poukawa Swamp Southbound Passing Lane	Construction	OK	Start programmed for 2012
Mangakino Stream Bridge Replacement	Construction	Caution	Opening date deferred to June 2012 due to extreme weather events
SH2 /50 Intersection Improvements	Construction	Caution	Potential start in 2011/12 – subject to funding availability
Te Mahanga Sth - Passing Lane	Design	OK	Design completed
College Rd to Silverstream	Design	OK	Design programmed for completion August 2011.
Gisbourne - Napier Passing Opportunities HB	Design	OK	11 out of 16 initiated. 4 out of 16 practically complete.
Corkscrew Gully Northbound Passing Lane	Design	Caution	Design completion due 2011/12 subject to funding of property purchase.
Corkscrew Gully Southbound Passing Lane	Design	Caution	Design completion due 2011/12 subject to funding of property purchase.
Waikaremoana Seal Extensio SH38	Design	Critical	Project unlikely to proceed due to low funding priority
Prebensen Drive/Hyderabad Road Interchange	Investigation	OK	Complete, design stage for cost effective at-grade solution initiated.
SH2 Kennals Corner and Curve South	Investigation	OK	Early stages of Investigation, local issues to address with stakeholders.
SH2/50A Paki Paki Intersection with SH50A	Investigation	OK	Scoping study complete June 2011
SH2 Napier Rd Intersection	Investigation	OK	Complete, Design programmed for completion August 2011.
SH2 Pilcher Rd Intersection	Investigation	OK	Complete, outcome being delivered through the Napier Road Intersection project
Tarawera Hill Realignment and PL	Investigation	OK	Continuing to progress scoping stage & Iwi liaison
HB Expressway Kennedy to Ngaruroro Improvements	Investigation	OK	Scoping of options to improve efficiency and safety. Due to be complete end of 2011
Mohaka Bridge Deck Repairs	Investigation	OK	Reprogrammed to start 2011, following outcome of initial investigations.
HB Expressway Meeanee Quay Intersection	Investigation	OK	Cost effective minor safety works programmed 2011/12, project no longer required.
SH2/SH5 Intersection Improvements	Investigation	OK	Scoping phase complete, initiating SAR.
Waitangi Washout Bridge Replacement	Investigation	Caution	Pending outcome of load capacity and condition analysis.
Napier Airport to Bay View Passing Lanes	Construction	Caution	Design practically complete - reviewing timing of construction phase
SH2 Wairoa Stock Effluent Facility	Investigation	Caution	Project on hold pending agreement on regional funding share agreement for physical works and maintenance.
Tahaenui Bridge Replacement and Realignment	Investigation	Caution	Local land issues to be resolved - reprogrammed for review 2011
Bay View - 70kph Zone Traffic Management	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Bay View to SH2/SH5 Intersection Seal Widening	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
North of Tunanui Rd Realignment	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Whakaki Rd Curves Improvements	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Glencoe Gorge Realignment	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
SH2 Poukawa Swamp Northbound Passing Lane	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Tutira section corridor mass action	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Manga-o-Nuku Bridges	Investigation	Critical	Project to be deferred due to higher regional priorities
Tangoio Straight Seal Widening	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority.
SH2 Opapa Passing Lane Northbound	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority and safety issues
SH2 Opapa Passing Lane Southbound	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority and safety issues
SH5 Turangakumu to Windy Gap mass Action	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
Tuiroa Cutting Realignment and Seal Widening	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority
SH5 Te Pohue golf course to Mistletoe mass action	Investigation	Critical	Project suspended due to fall in funding priority

Walking and cycling facilities
Omahu Rd/Expressway Pedestrian Crossing	Investigation	Caution	Currently working with HDC on options for York Rd and Omahu Rd

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Regional Transport Committee

Friday 08 July 2011

SUBJECT: RoadSafe Hawke's Bay Update

REASON FOR REPORT

1. To provide the Regional Transport Committee (RTC) with an update on recent projects and events undertaken by RoadSafe Hawke’s Bay.

Background

2. The RoadSafe Governance Group held their meeting on Thursday, 23 June and it was decided at that meeting that an update would be provided to the RTC. A copy of the minutes from that meeting are attached (Attachment 1).

3. The Governance Group asked the RoadSafe Regional Manager to provide an update on a number of high profile events that have been held recently, these included:

3.1. Motorcycle Practical Safety Training Day

3.1.1. A number of Road Safety Partners joined together to provide a motorcycle safety training day (see photos – Attachment 2). The day included bike checks by local mechanics, on and off road activities with a safety focus and theory component. 92 riders participated in the activities with a number of people from the public along to ‘just see what was going on’. There was very good feedback from participants, even asking when the next one was being held. Another event is planned for July 2011 and then there will be consideration of coordinating a summer series.

3.2. Youth Alcohol Expo

3.2.1. The Hawke’s Bay Youth Alcohol Expo was held in May 2011 (see photos – Attachment 3). The Project Team involved RoadSafe Hawke’s Bay, NZ Police, Hawke’s Bay District Health Board and Health Hawke’s Bay. The event included guest speakers, and also Expo style education opportunities. This has proved to be extremely successful, feedback from the students that attended has been overwhelming. Staff are currently in the evaluation phase and look to start planning the 2012 Expo.

4. The Governance Group were also presented with the RoadSafe Strategic Plan and draft Work Plans for 2011/12. The Strategic Plan is attached, for the Committee’s information (Attachment 4). The RoadSafe Regional Manager will be in attendance at the meeting to provide more details on the activities mentioned in this report.

DECISION MAKING PROCESS

5. Council is required to make a decision in accordance with Part 6 Sub-Part 1, of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Staff have assessed the requirements contained within this section of the Act in relation to this item and have concluded that, as this report is for information only and no decision is to be made, the decision making provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 do not apply.

RECOMMENDATION

1. That the Regional Transport Committee receives the report.

Linda Anderson

Regional Manager RoadSafe Hawke's Bay

Carol Gilbertson

Transport Manager

Attachment/s

1 View	Draft Minutes from RoadSafe Governance Group - June Meeting
2 View	Motorcycle Practical Safety Training Day - photos	Under Separate Cover
3 View	Youth Alcohol Expo - photos	Under Separate Cover
4 View	RoadSafe Strategic Plan	Under Separate Cover

Draft Minutes from RoadSafe Governance Group - June Meeting

Attachment 1

1. WELCOME/APOLOGIES/NOTICES

Chairman Dick welcomed everyone to the meeting. It was noted that a quorum was not present at this time and that any recommendations would need to be ratified at the next Regional Transport Committee Meeting.

Apology received from Terry Kingston CHBDC.

Inspector Chris Wallace joined the meeting at 11.15am so all decisions were able to be ratified due to the formation of a quorum.

2. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS

There were no conflicts of interest declared.

3. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF THE ROADSAFE Governance Group held on 18 February 2011

Minutes of the Roadsafe Governance Group held on Friday, 18 February 2011, a copy having been circulated prior to the meeting, were taken as read and confirmed.

Roil/Goble

CARRIED

4. Matters Arising from Minutes OF THE ROADSAFE Governance Group held on Friday 18 February 2011

There were no matters arising from the minutes.

Action Items from Previous Meetings

1. Update on Strategic Plan - item included for this meeting.

2. Safer Journey Documents have been supplied to Councillor T Kerr.

RECOMMENDATION

1. That the RoadSafe Governance Group receives the report “Action Items from Previous Meetings”.

Roil/Wallace

CARRIED

Financial Report

The financial report for the 11 months ending 31 May 2011 was presented by Mrs Gilbertson and Mrs Anderson.

Comment was made about the success the Regional Manager has had this financial year in securing third party funding, which is essential for the programme to run successfully. Some funding for the next financial year already secured. Mrs Anderson was praised for her efforts in obtaining the funding she has this year.

NZTA funding for next financial year is being reviewed and expected to be reduced. With Administration funding proposed to be cut. Mrs Gilbertson stated HBRC would be submitting to this review.

Mrs Anderson commented on the funding provided to both Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga for a Child Driveway Runover Education Programme and to Ngati Kahungunu for a Child Restraint project.

A report from Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga was included in the agenda papers. It was noted that they would be invoiced for the unspent money.

It was suggested external funders be acknowledged with a letter of thanks from the Roadsafe Governance Group. ACTION Mrs Anderson.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

That the RoadSafe Governance Group:

1. Agrees that the decisions to be made are not significant under the criteria contained in Council’s adopted policy on significance and that Council can exercise its discretion under Sections 79(1)(a) and 82(3) of the Local Government Act 2002 and make decisions on this issue without conferring directly with the community and persons likely to be affected by or to have an interest in the decision due to the nature and significance of the issue to be considered and decided.

2. Receive the financial position report as at 31 May 2011 and note the reports for the Driveway Runover Project and Child Restrain Project.

3. Support the intention to invoice Te Tai Whenua o Heretaunga for unspent funds provided for the Child Driveway Runover Education Programme for approximately $2,300.00.

Roil/Goble

CARRIED

General Business

Refreshing RoadSafe Logo. It was agreed to set aside $2,000 for Mrs Anderson to investigate options for a new RoadSafe Logo.

Goble/Roil

CARRIED

Co-ordinator Reports

Chairman Dick suggested the two Roadsafe Co-ordinators from Wairoa and Central Hawke’s Bay to attend the next RoadSafe Governance Meeting.

Mrs Anderson presented the three reports to the Committee. It was noted that both Ethna Renner in Central Hawke’s Bay and Jacki Apiata in Wairoa were receiving community support for the programmes they are running.

Strategic Meetings have been held and individual draft work plans established, copies were provided at the meeting. ACTION - provide final work plans when available.

Youth Alcohol Expo

Mrs Anderson noted how successful and well received the Expo had been. A teaching resource is about to be rolled out for a pilot study and a request has been received for a presentation at Woodford House.

Parts of the DVD “Just another Saturday Night” was shown.

Mrs Anderson commented that the DVD and presentation would be submitted to the TRAFNZ conference being held in September this year. With the possibility this could be submitted for international recognition.

Inspector Wallace commended Mrs Anderson and her team on the outstanding achievements the Expo had received.

Vulnerable Road Users

Mrs Anderson noted this successful event held at Roy’s Hill, SH 50 - a motorcycle safety training day, which attracted 92 participants. Another session is set for August. It was hoped that if ACC funding can be secured a summer series could also be run.

Chairman Dick suggested invites be forwarded to Councillors and local MPs for these high profile events.

An ongoing issue with billboards being sited in CHB continues with Ken Holst NZTA was discussed. ACTION: Inspector Wallace will raise this at the next RTC meeting on 8 July 2011.

It was requested Mrs Anderson also attend the RTC meeting.

The Committee reviewed the Strategic Planning Work document.

A copy of Hawke’s Bay Road Safety Action Plan (RSAP) was also circulated for the information of the Committee.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. That the RoadSafe Governance Group receives and notes the Co-ordinator Reports.

Dick/Wallace

CARRIED

2. That the RoadSafe Governance Group adopt and endorse the Strategic Planning Work done by the RoadSafe Team.

Roil/Wallace

CARRIED

Closure:

There being no further business the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 12.00pm on Thursday 23 June 2011.

Signed as a true and correct record.

DATE: ................................................ CHAIRMAN: ...............................................

1 View	Regional Director's Report - June
2 View	Attachment 2 - North Island SH Classification
3 View	Attachment 3 - South Island SH Classfication

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