The NZ Transport Agency yesterday published details of planned investment in the two regions in the next three years as part of a $16.9 billion National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).
Mr Twyford said the investment planned for Otago and Southland marked a 52% increase on the previous three-yearly plan.
Regional committees write transport plans, which are then moderated by the NZ Transport Agency and considered when it creates its national plan.
Otago regional transport committee chairman Trevor Kempton said at a glance it seemed the funding was "mostly as expected", although he had not read the report in detail.
"The areas where we were looking at significant activity around Queenstown and Dunedin look to be there."
In Dunedin this included the bus hub, the system of one-way cycle lanes and wider Dunedin cycleway projects and Portobello Rd improvements.
In Queenstown the agency was investigating various transport improvements, including a new public transport hub, pedestrianisation of the town centre, new shared walking and cycling opportunities and a range of public transport improvements, including water ferry services.
Mr Twyford said safety was a "top priority for the Government".
"We will invest $211 million in Otago and Southland on programmes and projects that will help save lives and reduce the number of serious injuries.
"This level of investment in road safety in Otago and Southland, 22% of the total planned investment for the region, reflects the importance which the Government places on keeping all New Zealanders safe on the roads."
The Government was putting a "much stronger" focus on regional investment and providing "significant increases" in funding for public transport, local road improvements, road safety and walking and cycling facilities, he said.
"Investment through the NLTP will contribute to a land transport system for Otago and Southland that will be safer and easier for people to use, supporting tourism and economic expansion, and keeping communities connected."
Investment highlights for Otago and Southland
• Improved network integrated with hospital development planning in Dunedin.
• Progression on detailed business cases for Queenstown.
• Planning for improved safety on SH1 between Oamaru and Dunedin.
• Continuing the expansion of Dunedin’s cycleway network, including completion of the SH1 separated cycle lanes.
• Completion of the Edendale Bypass.
• Planning for improved safety and resilience on SH94, the key tourist route to Milford Sound.
