Resource consent was given yesterday for the SkyPath. SkyPath is a plan for a walking and cycling path attached to the Auckland Harbour Bridge. It will be a separate 4m wide path, under the eastern side of the bridge. It will be covered from rain. Five viewing areas are planned so that walkers can stop to look at the view.
The cost is estimated at $33.5m dollars and it will be paid for by the Auckland City Council and private money. Walkers and cyclists will pay a toll of $2 each way, using their HOP card, to help pay for the cost of construction. Some people are not happy about a toll for walkers and cyclists as the bridge is free for car drivers.
SkyPath will link with the city through the Westhaven marina and the Wynyard Quarter. In the North, it will link to the SeaPath, a cycleway to Takapuna. Plans for SeaPath are with the New Zealand Transport Authority which is funding more cycleways in Auckland.
Vocabulary
• Resource consent – permission was given by commissioners considering if the plan has an effect on the environment
• estimated – a good guess of the cost
• HOP card – used on buses and ferries in Auckland
• marina – place where boats are tied up