TRAFFIC PROBLEM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23060, 10 June 1938, Page 17

TRAFFIC PROBLEM

EXHIBITION CROWDS VISITORS TO WELLINGTON COMMITTEE PREPARING PLAN [by TELEGRAPH —OWN correspondent] WELLINGTON, Thursday Next to accommodation, traffic control and the parking of cars will constitute one of tho main problems of the centennial exhibition at Wellington. Already a committee has been appointed to consider the problem, and it is probable that in the near future a comprehensive plan will be laid before the Wellington City Council for its approval. The committee is representative of the Railway Department, the City Council, the Union Steam Ship Company and the Automobile Association.

Two major problems confront the committee. The first is that of handling motorists, and the other is that of providing transport to and fro for pedestrian visitors. The latter will, of course, devolve on the tramway and bus services. As far as motorists are concerned the first, question to be considered will be that of routes to and from the exhibition. Last week's air pageant showed that if left to their own resources the majority of motorists would attempt to proceed to and from Kilbirnie by way of the traffic tunnel, leaving other routes comparatively clear. A system of diversion of traffic will therefore be necessary to ensure pach of the routes carrying its full share of traffic and also to prevent congestion in tho city itself, caused by many through travellers bound to or from tho Hutt Valley. The exhibition directors expect to set aside an area of about five acres actually on the exhibition site for parking cars. Level areas suitable for parking in the vicinity of the site are few. The principal ones belong to the Wellington Harbour Board, but it is understood they will be placed at the disposal of the City Council for the period of the exhibition. The committee is considering these problems and it is likely that in a few weeks' time a scheme will be formulated and plans laid for the handling of cars and people. The matter is mainly one of careful organisation and is by no means an insuperable obstacle.