The newest walking and cycling bridge on the North Shore will be lifted into place over the Northern Motorway at Spencer Road in Albany next week.
The large bridge spans which are a striking red colour will be installed by alliance crews over a series of nights from Monday 24 September, as part of the Northern Corridor Improvements project.
NZ Transport Agency Senior Manager Project Delivery Chris Hunt, says that people will notice the bridge straight away but they still need to take extra care while it’s being installed.
“We’re advising people to keep their eyes on the road and just watch their distances when they’re approaching especially during the morning peak from Albany.”
The Northern Motorway will be closed from 9pm until 5am between Greville Road and Oteha Valley Road for several week nights. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, follow the detours and look out for reminders on overhead and electronic signs.
The main work will take place on Monday 24, Wednesday 26 September and Monday 1 October. One 43 metre long truss will be lifted into place each night by cranes on both sides of the motorway. The final night will see the middle section erected and locked into place by 288 bolts.
The Tirohanga Whānui Bridge which means ‘panoramic view’ will reconnect the community between the East Coast Bays and Albany. It will enable people to walk and cycle safely across the bridge spanning the motorway and will give better access to the nearby Albany Station and business area.
“The bridge has been installed it will stay closed while further work takes place. We’ll be continuing to add the finishing touches like the lights, a deck and another coat of paint. Once that’s done it will provide a safe crossing ready for the whole community to enjoy,” says Mr Hunt.
At the same time, a new water main will also be installed directly underneath the bridge by Watercare as part of their Pinehill upgrade project, to help cater for the growing needs of the area.
A shared path will be added to each entrance before the bridge is planned to open to the public early 2019.
The Northern Corridor Improvements project will provide a much needed transport upgrade for the whole Albany and North Harbour community. It includes a new motorway connection between SH1 and SH18 and will open up access to the Western Ring Route and travel to the airport.
For more information visit www.nzta.govt.nz/nci(external link) or www.facebook.com/NZTAAkl(external link) or call the project freephone number 0800 624 776.
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