Making space: Innovative ways to fit multiple modes within narrow cross sections

Increasingly in New Zealand, there is a desire to provide road space for a range of different road users, including cycles, buses, and light rail. For many typical NZ road corridors (e.g. a standard 20 m road reserve) it can seem difficult to achieve this. However, many overseas examples offer inspiration (sometimes unconventional) for ways forward. This paper collates a wide variety of different road re-allocation treatments (from literature review and overseas study trips), to provide ideas and guidance for tackling similar problems in New Zealand (and also Australia). As well as more conventional options (such as: removing parking, narrowing traffic lanes, and making one-way streets), the paper will also examine some more creative treatments observed overseas (such as: traffic lanes being used as part-time tram platforms, single-lane two-way busways, and '2-minus-1' roads). In addition to describing their respective design aspects, some of the advantages and disadvantages of each option will be discussed as well. In some cases, changes to traffic legislation may also be required to allow certain innovations to be implemented. For many, extensive public education will also be necessary to successfully introduce them in Australasia.