The NZ Transport Agency has kicked-off Stage 2 of the SH1 Ellerslie Widening Project which will see the construction of an additional northbound lane running from the Ellerslie-Panmure Highway on-ramp to just after the Main Highway overbridge.
The additional lane will be constructed as an extension of the existing on-ramp and will increase this section of motorway from 3 to 4 lanes ensuring a continuous northbound passage to Greenlane, improving safety for merging traffic and easing congestion.
“Motorists who travel this section of motorway will be familiar with the congestion, as well as the merging difficulties for those joining SH1 from Ellerslie-Penrose,” says the Transport Agency’s Highway Manager Brett Gliddon. “The benefits of this stage of work will help to ease these pressures and keep the network moving as well as creating safer journeys for road users. These are key priorities for the Transport Agency.”
In an effort to save time, money and most importantly disruption to road and rail users, the Transport Agency partnered with Auckland Transport and KiwiRail to undertake Stage 1 works, which saw the successful upgrade of the Ellerslie Train Station and the relocation of the Main Highway overbridge piers. The partners have joined forces once again to undertake Stage 2 works.
While the $12 million project is now underway, the actual start of construction on the motorway has been timed to take place over the Christmas – as part of the Summer Season Journeys period when travel numbers are at their lowest. The project is due for completion in 2016.
Improvements to electronic motorway signage and new motorway lighting will also be undertaken as part of the project. Other work includes relocation of the remaining utility services and motorway stormwater drainage.
The Transport Agency and contractor Fulton Hogan are working closely with local businesses and residents to advise them of access changes throughout construction.
All Southern Line trains and motorway lanes will continue to run as scheduled (except during scheduled closures). Residents and business owners can call 0508 83 77 24 for more information.
For more information please contact:
Jan McCarthy
Media Manager - Christchurch
T: 03 964 2885
M: 021 427 442
E: jan.mccarthy@nzta.govt.nz
