A project aimed at making it easier and safer to cross Selwyn Street has been awarded special funding from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, and Somerfield Te Kura Wairepo tamariki are set to have a hands-on role in the implementation.

The project was submitted by the Christchurch City Council and is part of Waka Kotahi’s ‘Innovating Streets for People’ pilot fund.

The street is a busy route for tamariki making their way to and from school but the intersections with Penrith, Leitch, and Dunn Streets are particularly dangerous, with the intersection at Leitch Street measuring 16m wide. This makes it hard for children as well as older and disabled members of the community who may take longer to cross.

Justin Rogers, a Somerfield Te Kura Wairepo parent, brought attention to traffic safety at a Spreydon-Cashmere Community Board meeting on behalf of the Somerfield Residents Association. The proposal was based on an established community development principle of identifying the ‘smallest thing that can be done to make a difference where people struggle in their daily routine. Do that thing – right away. Repeat.’

To that end, the project will involve trialling low-cost and temporary intersection changes at key spots, to widen footpaths and make it safer for all. Suggestions include painting on roads, reflective flexi posts and planter boxes which can be moved, adapted or removed if unsuccessful. The idea is that temporary and affordable infrastructure can test the effectiveness of long-term solutions.

Christchurch City Council are committed to a co-design and co-delivery process with the community. The school has already begun formulating a plan for the kids to get actively involved as part of their deep learning and social action aspects of the curriculum.

We would love it if you could share this information with anyone you think might be interested in having a say in this exciting project.

Please keep an eye on our newsletter for further information about how you and your whanau can have a say on this important project.