CGI models prompt Council to fix roadway for cycling
(Larger size images below)
Compelling evidence that concrete 'islands' on Broadway in Wellington made cyclists feel unsafe was created -and used successfully to improve conditions- by an architect and cycling advocate.
Travis Gray, a Registered Architect in Wellington, found that on his regular commute many motorists were passing way too close on the 350m stretch where concrete islands have been installed. Following the 'occupy the lane' advice from the Road Code over a 350m stretch proved too much. So Travis took his indignation, a laser measuring tape and some good CAD software and sat down to produce these millimeter-accurate images, then sending them to Wellington City Council.
'What we need to be doing is engaging communities in a discussion earlier that firstly shows them what the current situation is using accurate -millimeter-perfect- 3D images and dimensions. With this info, we need to show communities typical scenarios which demonstrate hazards and dangers and ask them if that's acceptable', says Travis.
WCC now say they'll remove the offending concrete. Travis doesn't claim full responsibility, but feels he has a powerful tool for advocacy- 'When you see these images it's difficult to argue that the status quo is acceptable, and any councillors, once they are seen to be seeing these, might think twice about not doing something about it.'
Travis Gray image- 1
Travis Gray- 2
Travis Gray- 2