$5.4m or $100k? Peachgrove Rd traffic fix options up for discussion

Monday, 8 June 2026

Big changes could be on the way for roading infrastructure close to two of Hamilton’s busiest schools - and council want the public to have a say on whether the proposed changes will cost $5.4m - or $100,000.

Hamilton City Council has put out a call for public feedback after revealing a number of infrastructure options for Peachgrove Rd, outside Hamilton Boys’ High School and Peachgrove Intermediate, following feedback from local residents and schools.

The corridor carries thousands of people each day and becomes particularly busy during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Council city delivery committee chair Sarah Thomson said the council wanted community feedback before deciding on a preferred option.

“We know this is a busy part of the city, especially at peak times,” Thomson said.

“In responding to safety concerns from local schools and residents, we’ve developed four options and now we want to hear what the community thinks will work best.”

The most extensive proposal, estimated to cost up to $5.4 million, would deliver a complete school-zone safety upgrade.

The option includes shared paths on both sides of Peachgrove Rd for people walking, scooting and cycling, improved crossings and bus stops, and the removal of most on-street parking to reduce congestion and unsafe manoeuvres during peak periods.

A second option, costing up to $4.3 million, would provide targeted safety upgrades, including a shared path along the Hamilton Boys’ High School side of the road and a shorter section outside Peachgrove Intermediate. Some short-stay parking would be retained.

The third option focuses on installing a signalised pedestrian crossing at Wilson St, with limited shared-path improvements and no major changes to the road layout. The estimated cost is up to $1.2 million.

The least expensive option, estimated at $100,000, would focus on improving parking turnover and increasing enforcement without making changes to walking or cycling infrastructure.

Council said some options would require alternative parking arrangements for parents and caregivers. There are currently 227 unrestricted parking spaces available on surrounding streets, and council is reviewing parking needs with affected residents, schools and parents.

A series of public drop-in sessions will be held in June for people wanting to discuss the proposals with council staff. Sessions are scheduled at Peachgrove Intermediate Hall on June 16 and June 23, and at Hamilton Boys’ High School Hall on June 20.

Consultation is open until July 2, 2026, with residents able to provide feedback on their preferred option through the council's consultation process.