Seconded to the Christchurch City Council, Octa is part of a synergetic team of Project Managers delivering the Major Cycleway Programme. The pivotal focus of the Major Cycle Routes (MCRs) is a planned network of 13 connected routes, efficiently and scenically linking suburbs, education facilities, business and shopping areas, as well as popular recreational destinations. The cycleway network will create a safe, connected transport option offering people a positive choice in how they get around the city. This investment in a bikeable city contributes to a healthy, liveable community. The strong focus on streetscape improvements, including the greening of the landscape, are key features of the new cycleway network, emphasising its environmental and aesthetic aspects.
In the first five years of the programme, the project team successfully delivered over 42 kilometres of new cycleway infrastructure, with a capital spend of $72M. The Major Cycleway Programme represents twenty five percent of the annual transport capital project budget.
Octa’s role has involved the management of the design teams, chairing risk and ‘Safety in Design’ workshops, and ensuring the new cycleway infrastructure is as per the design guidelines/standards. Engaging and addressing stakeholders’ concerns are key requirements of the Project Manager, along with exploring potential cycleway route options that are both safe and meet the minimum cycleway standards.
As the new cycleway infrastructure is delivered in partnership with NZTA, Christchurch City Council's Project Management processes have been adapted in line with NZTA guidelines and auditing processes, including contractor procurement, tender assessment and contract management under NZS3910 conditions.
Octa provided value in implementing robust project management principles where the best route options were explored, and then establishing effective design engineering solutions that meet the cycleway guidelines. During implementation, Octa managed tender and construction phase in a controlled and proficient manner that successfully achieved the required outcome. Effective stakeholder management both during consultation and construction phases.
