Palmerston North has unique characteristics that make a gondola system a viable, effective and future proof public transport option for the City. Massey will be the first University in the world linked to an aerial ropeway. The public transport benefits are significant, however, the largest benefits relate to economic development and marketing for the region.
Powered by renewable energy, passengers are silently transported over cityscape and scenic vistas to and from the University in just 9 minutes. People can board or disembark at any of the four terminal stations. A modified ‘feeder’ bus service could transport people to and from their destinations. There is virtually no waiting time with a cabin arriving every 30 seconds. The system could move up to 1500 people an hour in both directions; further capacity can be easily added to accommodate for future growth.
Palmylink would be a unique and pleasant commuter experience. The system works and is economically viable because:
- 12,000 people travel to the university daily, mostly on a single corridor.
- A large number of students live within close proximity of the route.
- It bridges ‘town and gown’ while reducing road traffic.
- There are significant advantages over other transport options available in Palmerston North.
Palmylink presents opportunities for transit orientated development (TOD), that is, increased housing density and attractive urban spaces around public transport hubs. TOD is proven in European and American cities and is gaining ground in New Zealand. TOD has been attributed to vibrant, liveable and sustainable communities with a defined sense of ‘place’. These characteristics could develop around terminals, each creating a hub of activity; prime land for commercial, retail and residential/visitor accommodation. These opportunities represent a value proposition for stakeholders, and a value add for our community.
Palmylink is a ‘state-of-the-art’ public transport system; the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The technology is proven and tested in thousands of applications around the world – its uptake for urban transit is well established in some cities. Palmerston North would have a significant ‘point of difference’ to anywhere in New Zealand, even the world.
Other benefits include:
- The system has a low carbon output with carbon trading opportunities.
- Small land footprint; minimal property acquisition and reduced environmental impacts.
- Enhanced access to Palmerston North Girls High School, Lido Aquatic Centre, the Victoria Esplanade and River Track, as well as multiple sports fields and facilities.
- A flood proof route across the Manawatu River.
- Reduced congestion on local roads, offsetting the need for upgrades.
- More social interaction and vibrant streets.
- Health benefits as the system encourages walking and cycling.
- An improved public bus network.
The external benefits are significant. While further economic analysis is required, the external benefits to the regional economy from both direct and indirect spending, increased productivity and ‘quality of life’ metrics are considered to be significant.
A successful outcome will be a result of a dynamic partnership among key stakeholders. Councils, Massey University, local business and the community working together can ensure this. Our partnership will be crucial to get Palmylink to the “investment ready” stage.
Palmylink has the potential to become an efficient public transit system, City icon and growth driver. This concept provides a catalyst for Palmerston North to become a more vibrant and progressive City with a distinct ‘point of difference’.
http://www.palmylink.org.nz
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