Options to improve access to Tucker Beach Rd and Quail Rise from State Highway 6 are being discussed by the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
The NZTA announced last month it was seeking feedback on a proposal to lower the speed limit from 100kmh to 80kmh from the Stalker Rd roundabout, past Tucker Beach Rd, to Hardware Lane, formerly the Glenda Dr turn-off.
While Quail Rise residents welcomed that news, many felt a long-term option, such as an underpass to connect west-bound traffic with the state highway, should be examined.
Queenstown Lakes district Mayor Jim Boult said while planning was in the early stages, work was progressing to identify the ``right solution for long-term safe access'' for the Tucker Beach and Quail Rise communities.
``We are still in the early stages of our discussions ... but I'm pleased with the progress we have made.
``Locals have been telling us loud and clear that we have to take action to improve this intersection - and they are right,'' he said.
NZTA Regional Relationships director Jim Harland said several options were being considered to ensure the needs of all road users were taken into account.
``There is still some work to do but we should have completed the initial review towards the end of next month and be able to talk to the community about what is proposed and likely timeframes as we work through design, funding and construction.''
Feedback on the proposal to lower the speed limit closes on March 28.
In the wake of that announcement another online petition to NZTA was started.
Lake Hayes Estate resident Nicky Busst's petition urges the agency to consider extending the reduced speed limit from either the Crown Range Rd turn-off, or the Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd turn-off, through to near the Queenstown Events Centre.
At present, the speed limit changes between 100kmh and 80kmh three times between the Crown Range Rd and Hardware Lane - a distance of about 10km.
She hoped to attract at least 250 signatures and by yesterday afternoon, 79 people had signed it.
