The Links Avenue safety improvements project was initiated in response to community concerns raised about student safety and findings from an independent safety review of Links Avenue. Initially, the bus lanes were removed, and access restrictions were implemented to reduce the amount of traffic using the avenue as a thoroughfare during peak times. We worked with the Links Avenue Community Panel to implement changes, including relocating bus stops, improved pedestrian crossing facilities, traffic calming measures, and cycle lane separators.
Interim safety improvements update
In early 2024, we implemented an interim safety improvement design for Links Avenue. This design, approved by Council on 26 February 2024, was based on recommendations from the former Links Avenue Community Panel to enhance safety along the avenue. These improvements are temporary and have been helping us learn what works for the community before implementing any permanent changes.
A site inspection has indicated some minor repairs, maintenance, and updates are required.
To accommodate work on surrounding roads like Farm Street and minimise disruption to traffic flow in the area, we have divided the work into two stages. The first stage of work is complete, and we’re currently conducting our site inspection. The work included:
- removing one island between 29 Links Avenue and Mount Maunganui Intermediate
- maintenance and upgrades to drains and some temporary bollards
- enhancing selected cycle onramps and installing yellow tactile pavers at bus stops and pedestrian crossings where necessary to improve accessibility and visibility
- signage work involving the removal of unused signpost bases and repositioning of signs
- removing one of the concrete barriers on Links Avenue in front of 8 Golf Road to improve access to a new driveway
The second stage will include work near the intersections of Links Avenue and Concord Avenue, Farm Street and Concord Avenue, and Carter Street and Concord Avenue. Weather dependent, we aim to begin this work at the end of January 2025 and will share more information soon.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we complete this work in your area.
Links Avenue access restriction trial
In March 2022, we introduced access restrictions to help reduce traffic on the avenue during peak times and create a safer area for our community. Since then, we've been trialling different access times to determine the most effective approach.
A new trial was introduced in July 2024 to give residents and visitors more ways to move around during restricted hours without needing an exemption or risking a fine. Links Avenue's restricted hours are Monday to Friday, 7am - 10am and 2pm - 4pm (including public holidays and school holidays), and these hours were established based on peak travel times. There are no restrictions outside of these hours.
Residents and visitors can avoid a fine during the restricted hours by:
- Entering and exiting Links Avenue from the same point at any time (e.g. enter Links Avenue through Concord Avenue and exit through Concord Avenue).
- Ensuring at least 15 minutes have passed between entering and exiting Links Avenue from different roads (e.g. enter through Concord Avenue and exit through Golf Road).
What’s next?
The trial is scheduled for review in December 2024 at a council meeting, where a decision will be made on the future of the avenue.
Stay informed
To keep up to date, you can visit this web page for the latest news, or please sign up for the Tauranga City Council's Weekly Bulletin for news on Links Avenue and other projects.
If you have any questions or concerns about the project, please email us at linksavenue@tauranga.govt.nz.