The Selwyn District Council has spent approximately seven years implementing the Lincoln Town Center Plan.
The financing will allow the first phase to be brought forward by one year to start in fiscal year 2023/24.
Improvements will be made along the eastern end of Gerald St from West Belt to Kildare Tce, including the installation of traffic lights with pedestrian crossings at the West Belt junction, cycle paths to replace parallel car parks, improvement of footpaths and streetscapes, and intersections and drainage improvements.
The district council will add $1.2 million in its own funding for improvements, including the addition of nearby open parking spaces behind the stores on Gerald St, between William and Lyttelton Sts.
The district council will receive $5.59 million from the first round of the Better Off Funding package, allocated by the government as part of the Three Waters Reform.
It has chosen the first phase of the Lincoln Town Center Plan as its most important project.
Springs Ward councilor Malcolm Lyall welcomed the funding allocation and the district council’s decision, which was confirmed at last week’s meeting.
“It (the Lincoln Town Center plan) is really overdue,” Lyall said.
“The people of Lincoln have had to wait and wait as we have seen developments happen in the district.
“The three ward councilors have been battling for funding in this area – I’m thrilled we’re getting this going.”
Lyall said the county council could also bring forward the expansion improvements along Gerald St and the creation of more parking spaces during the long-term planning process.
He said the district council had responded to public concerns about the loss of parallel parks to the bike lanes earlier in the planning process by purchasing a series of car parking sections.
He said the improvements would make the city center safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
Council chairman David Ward commented on climate change considerations in his report to district councilors ahead of the meeting.
“The Lincoln city center upgrade supports better modes of transport and low-emission travel by providing safe, accessible and enjoyable walking and cycling options in the city center,” said Ward.
The county council plans to use the remainder of the $5.59 million Better Off Funding package to fund feasibility studies at a health center in Leeston and increase the reach of Arthur’s Pass to Te Waihora Cycle Trail, along with supporting mana when board participation in district council subcommittees.
A second round of Better Off funding is expected to be released to district councils in 2024.