"I strongly support applying to NZTA for the inclusion of the Remutaka Hill Road in the Roads of Regional Significance (RoRS). This vital route is a lifeline for our region, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services. Yet, its current state—marked by safety risks, weather closures, and capacity constraints—it's a daily concern. The need for significant improvements or an alternative route is clear. While a new road offers undeniable long-term benefits, the question of cost remains a critical concern. A proposed toll road could unfairly burden residents who choose to use it, though the existing road would remain toll-free. With the Roads of Regional Significance and Roads of National Significance programs replacing the New Zealand Upgrade Programme, funding is now limited to $6.54 billion shared across all projects. NZTA has been tasked with prioritisation, project scope, and delivery within this capped budget, with no additional Crown funding available. It makes perfect sense for the Remutaka Hill Road to secure its place on the RoRS list, this alone will impact the overall cost of the solution regardless of whether that includes upgrades to the current road or a new road."