The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) says the design of a new twin lane bridge across the Waitaki River at Kurow should be completed in about nine months time.
NZTA State Highways Manager Colin Knaggs says everything is on track at this stage to have the detailed design of the new bridge finished by mid 2011. McConnell Dowell Ltd is undertaking the design of the new bridge.
The new bridge would replace two aging wooden single lane structures will have a footpath – cycle way along its downstream side and offer greater safety and reduce travel times between Hakataramea and Kurow Mr Knaggs said.
NZTA will continue to operate the existing bridges until the new bridge is opened.
Colin Knaggs says the old bridges will be removed after the new one is opened. Several groups have already expressed interest in recycling the material from the old bridges. First preference will be given to using it on other bridges in the surrounding districts. One or two spans from the old bridges will be displayed on Kurow Island.
Decisions on funding to build the bridge are likely to be made in the next year or so.
