The government is moving to fast-track billions in funding for rail investments in a change that is being hailed as historic. The state-owned enterprise's funding is usually approved annually by the Crown, but the government yesterday released a draft rail plan that will prioritise new trains, tracks and bridges across the country by funding KiwiRail's budget through the National Land Transport Fund. "This is an historic change in the way rail is treated in New Zealand," he said. Safety at level crossings, where two people died last week after being hit by trains in Auckland, will also be improved. Transport Minister Phil Twyford said upgraded rail would boost productivity, and reduce road congestion and net greenhouse gas emissions.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 13, 2019 20:15 UTC