The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) advises road users to take extra care on State Highway 35, 44km east of Opotiki where the effect of recent bad weather has forced a lane closure.
Rod James, the NZTA’s Bay of Plenty State Highway Manager says the swollen Motu River has undermined the highway’s foundation bank leaving it vulnerable to collapse. A short section of the highway has been reduced to one-way and directional priority signs have been erected.
“The time needed to source the fill material to rebuild the bank, and for the river to recede so workers can access the repair area means work won’t begin until 20 July at the earliest.
“Once underway, we expect the repair work will take approximately two weeks but of course, this will depend on weather and river conditions,” says Mr James.
While there are permanent one-way sections of State Highway 35 in the area, any temporary changes to road conditions can pose extra hazards for road users. The NZTA thanks road users for their patience and cooperation during the temporary closure and repair works.
