Rail or bus? Greater Christchurch’s $4.4 billion question

Public transport use in Christchurch is still well down on pre-earthquake levels. (Image: Getty)

Wed, 30 Jun 2021

Mass rapid transit infrastructure options for Greater Christchurch could cost between $1.1 billion and $4.4b, according to high level estimates in a new business case.For the past year, planners from engineering consultancy WSP have been investigating the feasibility of mass rapid transit (MRT) by modelling three options: a heavy rail service, and two street-running options with different numbers of stops serviced by light rail or bus rapid transit. All scenarios assume MRT will be built in two corridors connecting central Christchurch to its s...

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