Fast-track consents for the harbour-side walking and cycling link between Wellington and Lower Hutt are being lodged in the coming weeks.
An architect's visualisation of a part of the project. Photo: Supplied / NZTA
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is also also selecting a company to build the project.
It has released updated designs for the project - called Te Ara Tupua - which incorporate mana whenua and and community feedback.
It says the project will increase the number of people commuting by bike and will build more resilience into the region's transport system.
Photo: Supplied / NZTA
Construction is expected to start in the middle of next year and take about three years to complete.
"We've invested in ecological design changes to preserve sensitive habitats and added new offshore habitat areas, which will offer undisturbed roosting places for birds while the path is being built and when it opens to the public," Emma Speight from Waka Kotahi said.
The Ngā Ūranga to Pito-one section (Ngauranga to Petone) of Te Ara Tupua will be the first Waka Kotahi project considered under the new Covid-19 fast-track consent process.
An aerial view of the Ngā Ūranga to Pito-one section. Photo: Supplied / NZTA
The process largely bypasses the Resource Management Act, with the power in the hands of a panel of experts chaired by an Environment Court judge.
Speight said despite that no shortcuts were being taken.
"We are working hard and investing more to ensure this project is done right - environmentally, culturally, and for the community who will use it."
Photo: Supplied / NZTA